People in Dumbarton and the Vale are being urged to apply to a new suicide prevention panel.

Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) is inviting people with “lived experience” of suicide to take part in a new national suicide prevention: Lived Experience Panel.

The panel will provide an important platform for those whose lives have been touched by suicide to share their valuable insights and experiences by working alongside members of the Scottish Government’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group.

Those who have previously attempted suicide, experienced suicidal thoughts, or have lost a loved one to suicide are encouraged to apply to be on the panel.

SAMH is working with the Scottish Government and partners Support in Mind, Penumbra, and Samaritans Scotland to deliver the Panel.

Billy Watson, SAMH chief executive, said: “Our charity has a long history of supporting people and families affected by suicide. We’ve campaigned vigorously to ensure anyone affected by suicide can get effective support now and in the future, and we believe that services which are shaped by the people who use them will deliver the best results.

“It’s a great opportunity for people who want to help make a difference to thousands of people’s lives. The panel should be a true representation of our society, so I encourage those from all backgrounds to join us and help make a difference that we can all be proud of.”

See samh.org.uk.