Sir Alex Ferguson partners with Greater Manchester Mayor to launch suicide prevention campaign
The League Managers’ Association (LMA) is teaming up with the Greater Manchester Mayor to launch a regional campaign encouraging people to “speak openly” about the topic of suicide and help save lives.
The LMA – which includes former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and ex-City manager Mark Hughes – is partnering with Andy Burnham’s office to “bring suicide out of the dark in Greater Manchester.”
The Shining a Light on Suicide campaign has been set up to offer vital advice and support to anyone who may be feeling suicidal, worried someone else is, or has lost someone to suicide.
Ferguson said it was “essential that the topic of suicide is spoken about openly.”
“The more we talk about suicide, the easier it is to ask someone if they’re having suicidal thoughts,” he added.
“Talking really could help to save a life. The Shining a Light on Suicide campaign is so important.”
Mayor Andy Burnham stated: “We know there is a growing mental health crisis taking place alongside this pandemic that will still be there after it’s over.
“But we also know that people have been looking out for each other more and that gives us something to build on.
“Just having a little bit of knowledge about suicide, and the confidence to speak about it in the right way, can help to save a life.”
Burnham added: “We are grateful to many current and former managers for stepping forward to support it.”
Mark Hughes said that whilst suicide was a difficult subject to talk about, “it’s important to be direct if you’re concerned about someone.”
The former City boss stated: “Together we can work to encourage openness and honesty, which will ultimately empower everyone to play a part in preventing suicide.”
More information about the essential campaign is available online at: http://shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk.