A NEW, personal campaign will draw on stories of Ballarat people affected by suicide in a bid to keep others in this community safe.
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Initial response to the Ballarat and District Suicide Prevention Network project has been strong with more than 10 people indicating they were prepared to share within 24 hours of the concept first posted on social media this week.
Network chairman and Ballarat policeman Des Hudson said experience with suicide was always a sensitive issue but personal stories, from those who were ready to share, could be a powerful tool for community change.
The network is producing a multimedia series with stories to share via social media and other platforms, such as pre-film advertisements at Ballarat's cinemas. These will be designed to guide people back to SafeTalk training, run in partnership between the network and Lifeline Ballarat, to equip people with the skills to be alert and to open dialogue with those who might be considering suicide.
This shows there are people who want to talk about the issue, who don't want suicide hidden in darkness.
- Des Hudson, Ballarat and District Suicide Prevention Network chairman
"What we want is people with real experience who are happy to share some or part of their story on the ripple effects from suicide on them or their family," Leading Senior Constable Hudson said.
"We've been overwhelmed by the response so far. This shows there are people who want to talk about the issue, who don't want suicide hidden in darkness."
The network was hoping for a diverse response in gender, age, sexual and cultural backgrounds for the project.
Leading Senior Constable Hudson said no-one was immune to the impacts of suicide. He said you could never be sure how full people's "bucket" was like, the loads they were carrying, no matter the demographic.
But he said this was why it was important for us all to be in a better space to know what to say and do.
Leading Constable Hudson said those who were interest in sharing their story would be well prepared in the lead-up process before a final decision to take part. Filming will be done in a conversation style to edit short responses for broadcast. The network was also exploring options for a podcast, particularly for those uncomfortable to speak on camera.
Funds for the project has been raised via the network's annual Beating the Blues gala ball.
If you or someone you know is in need of crisis support, phone Lifeline 13 11 14.
Help is also available, but not limited, via the following organisations. The key message is you are not alone.
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
Mensline: 1300 789 978 or mensline.org.au
Survivors of Suicide: 0449 913 535
Relationships Australia: 1800 050 321
headspace Ballarat (for 12-25s and parent support): 5304 4777
Soldier On: 1300 620 380
Ballarat Community Health: 5338 4500
QLife: 1800 184 527 (Support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex people)
Family violence: 1800 RESPECT
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