Suicide support charity to benefit from event

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Cllr John Scott , pictured with representatives from Turning Point, Focus, Tesco, PSNI Newtownabbey and Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council staff members.

The Darkness Into Light concept was first started in 2009 by Pieta House Suicide Awareness and Crisis Centre in Dublin, when a few hundred people supported this first event and walked from the darkness into the dawn light to symbolise that there is hope for those in despair.

Darkness Into Light is now the flagship fundraising and awareness event for Pieta House, with over 130,000 worldwide supporting the event last year.

The council is also working with two local charities, Turning Point and Focus, who are both based in Antrim and help support those with suicidal thoughts and mental health problems.

In addition Tesco and Newtownabbey PSNI are lending their support to raise awareness of this event to gain maximum community support.

Darkness Into Light has become an International event, held annually in over 100 locations across four continents and made its debut in V36 in 2016 when over 700 took part.

Cllr John Scott said: “Statistics have shown Northern Ireland has the UK’s highest record of suicide, with an average of six suicides a week. I am personally delighted to be backing this event now in its second year.

“Darkness Into Light is about offering hope to people in their time of need. I would encourage you all to show your support and help raise awareness of suicide prevention by registering for this 5km walk/run.”

Darkness Into Light will take place on Saturday, May 6 at 4:15am in V36 when participants will walk or run into the light as dawn breaks. This event is being organised in conjunction with and in support of Pieta House, Turning Point and Focus.

Show your support for this event and register today. http://dil.pieta.ie/. Early Bird booking offer ends Friday, March 31.