Support Norwich Samaritans & sign up for Dawn Walk this World Mental Health Day!
These are tough times right now and more people may find themselves struggling to cope. Dawn Walk is a great way to help look after your own mental health while helping ensure Samaritans volunteers are there for those in need of our support.
Jane Brown, Norwich Branch Director
There is something profoundly moving about watching the world shift from total darkness into light.
Every day, thousands of people across the UK face thoughts of suicide or find themselves trapped in their darkest moments. For them, night can feel endless and the silence unbearable. But as Samaritans remind us every single day, no one has to face that darkness alone.
This World Mental Health Day, Norwich Samaritans is inviting people across Norfolk to turn their footsteps into hope by taking part in the Norwich Samaritans Dawn Walk on Sunday 11 October and fundraising to help Samaritans continue providing emotional support for anyone in crisis.
Life can be wonderful. Life can be tough. One in four of us have had suicidal thoughts.
The 5km sunrise walk will take place at Whitlingham Country Park, Norwich, with participants gathering at 6.30am while the rest of the world is still sleeping. As dawn breaks, walkers will come together to symbolise hope, recovery and turning the page on darkness.
You don't need to be an experienced walker. Just bring your determination, your compassion, and perhaps a friend or two. Together, every mile covered will send a powerful message: there is always someone ready to listen.
The event is far more than a physical walk. It is a powerful statement of solidarity and a way of saying to anyone who may be struggling: your life matters, and sunrise is coming.
Every £10 raised helps Norwich branch of Samaritans to answer a potentially life-saving call from someone who feels they have nowhere else to turn.
Whether you've used Samaritans' services, are walking in memory of someone, are supporting a cause close to your heart, or simply want to help others, everyone is welcome to take part.
When someone is feeling suicidal, they may seem distant, distracted, or disconnected from the people around them. Asking someone directly whether they are having suicidal thoughts can give them the opportunity to open up and share how they're feeling. You don't need to be an expert. Simply being there, listening without judgement, and showing that you care can make a real difference. Reassuring someone that they are not a burden and that there is always someone they can turn to can be incredibly powerful. Suicide is often seen as a taboo subject, which can make it difficult for people to talk about. That's why it's so important for people to know that it's okay to ask direct questions, such as, 'Are you feeling suicidal?' Open and honest conversations can help break down stigma and encourage people to seek support.
Cath - Listening Samaritan, Norwich Branch
Every hour. Every day. Every life.
If you believe in the power of human connection to prevent suicide, join us on 11 October and help ensure that no one has to face their darkest moments alone. Let's prevent suicide today, because tomorrow may be too late.
If you cannot take part on 11 October but would still like to get involved, you can complete your Dawn Walk virtually on a date of your choosing. Simply visit https://dawnwalk.samaritans.org/ and select Norwich so that Norwich Samaritans receives your donations.
When registering:
- Enter your details and set up your JustGiving account (if you don't already have one).
- Select Sunday 11 October.
- Choose Norwich as the branch you're fundraising for. This ensures funds come directly to Norwich Samaritans.
- Your fundraising page will then be created automatically.