The doors will soon open to a new centre for suicide prevention and bereavement support in Dunedin, thought to be the first of its kind in New Zealand.
The Hope Centre, established by the Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust, will act as a support network for families dealing with the aftermath of a suicide and information centre for those seeking mental health advice.
Life Matters Suicide Prevention Trust chairwoman Corinda Taylor said the Albion Pl location for the centre was made possible after a "huge effort" via fundraising, funding applications and donations.
She was "ecstatic" about the new venture and hoped it would mean an easier way to liaise with people who were in need of assistance.
"Previously, we would have to talk to people over the phone, via email or Facebook. Now, we have a physical place which means we can actually see people face to face and have much better communication."
The centre would be manned by trained volunteers through the day.
The Hope Centre would be ready to host its first meeting, the Mental Health and Addiction Inquiry with Prof Ron Paterson, at the end of the month, Mrs Taylor said.
- By Emma Perry
WHERE TO GET HELP
Suicide/depression related
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Lifeline Aotearoa: 0800 543 354
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
Samaritans: 0800 726 666
Alcohol Drug Helpline: 0800 787 797
General mental health inquiries: 0800 44 33 66
The Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757
Youthline: 0800 376-633, txt 234 or talk@youthline.co.nz
What’s Up (for 5-18-year-olds; 1pm-11pm): 0800 942-8787
Kidsline (aimed at children up to age 14; 4pm-6pm weekdays): 0800 54-37-54 (0800 kidsline)
