In the UK & Republic of Ireland, there were 6,859 suicides in 2018. Furthermore, deaths by suicide rose by 11.8% in the UK in 2018. The sad statistic is that in the UK, the highest suicide rate is among men aged 45-49. However, this is only the tip of the iceberg. There are many more people experiencing suicidal thoughts and attempting suicide. Or contacting organisations like the Samaritans and Maytree for help. (figures from Samaritans).
If someone feels suicidal, it may be that they are helped by fabulous volunteers from an organisation called Maytree. As a result, they are able to stay in their non-medical haven and be supported by trained volunteers at this pivotal moment in their life.
What is Maytree?
Maytree is a special and unique charity that provides a place to stay for those who are feeling suicidal. It is a non-medical residential home open 365 days a year. Furthermore, it is staffed by trained and supportive volunteers.
What do they provide?
Maytree provides guests with a room of their own, full use of a kitchen, sitting room and garden. Privacy is an option at any time. Furthermore, simple, home cooked meals are provided. Additionally, there is the freedom to visit nearby shops for extras.
Importantly, they also allow for lots of time to talk. This includes one-to-one sessions, with trained and friendly volunteers. As a result, staff spend many hours with each guest over their stay, giving them the opportunity to talk through their fears, thoughts and troubles. All thoughts and feelings are heard with compassion and without judgement.
After a stay:
As Maytree is only able to offer short one-off stays, they make sure that during a guest’s stay, discussions are had about next steps. For instance, this includes counselling, financial advice and housing.
A week after a guest’s stay, he or she will receive a personal record. This is written by a member of Maytree’s staff team reflecting on their stay and validating struggles whilst honouring their achievements.
Maytree usually have initial conversations on the phone with callers, which for some is sufficient help to move forward without coming to stay in the home.
In the first half of 2019, the charity has had 84 people staying with them. Additionally, they have been able to assist a further 1214 by telephone.
First Aid for Life are delighted to support Maytree with their incredible work:
First Aid for Life provides specialist first aid training for the volunteers of Maytree and have done for many years. The team they recruit have always been outstanding and our tailored courses ensure they are confident and competent to help should they need to.
If you would like further information about Maytree or the Samaritans, please find their numbers below and don’t hesitate to ask for help.
To call Maytree: 02072637070
To call Samaritans: 116 123
Written by Emma Hammett RGN – Founder and CEO of First Aid for Life.
First Aid for Life is the leading provider of first aid and our team of highly experienced medical, health and emergency services professionals will tailor the training to your needs.
It is strongly advised that you attend a First Aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.
Please visit www.firstaidforlife.org.uk, emma@firstaidforlife.org.uk or tel: 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses. First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information.
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