Rays Corner is a suicide prevention initiative that came about following the death of a local man, Ray, who took his own life in 2020.
His family fundraised and in his memory the idea of Rays Corner was formed. It is essentially a notice board with access to local support materials and crisis service information. There is also a QR code that takes you to a support page www.wellbeinginfo.org/rayscorner which means information can be accessed discretely.
To date this QR code has been used over 5000 times. It is a simple but powerful idea that offers access to support, helps generate conversations about mental health and the stigma that often surrounds suicide. But ultimately and crucially it has saved lives.
There are now over 700 corners across Sunderland, located in community venues, workplaces, cafes, places of education, pubs, hairdressers, taxi bases and GP surgeries.
If you would like Rays Corner in your, workplace or community venue please get in touch with Washington Mind. There is no cost associated with accessing a Rays Corner as they are currently fully funded
Washington Mind is a Sunderland citywide mental health charity providing mental health and wellbeing support, information and training for the local community.
It has been actively involved in suicide prevention for many years, providing a range of support options.
Over 11 years ago it co-produced and then developed A LIFE Worth Living (ALWL) suicide prevention training. The aim of the training is to save lives and it is for anyone who wants to be a part of a solution.
Visit Washington Mind’s training page https://washingtonmind.org.uk/mental-health-and-wellbeing-training/ to book your place.