Laois councillors to undergo training for Safetalk suicide language and support
'This training could save someone's life' - Cllr Vivienne Phelan
The 19 Laois county councillors are to undergo training in what to do and say to help people in mental health crisis or considering suicide.
It comes after Fine Gael Cllr Vivienne Phelan tabled a motion to the October meeting of Laois County Council, asking them to provide Safetalk training.
"Safetalk is internationally recognised as a training programme to recognise and engage with people that may be having thoughts of suicide and connect them with life saving resources and services.
"I've done this training a couple of times and it's an excellent way to learn clear and practical tips on what to do if you come in contact with someone who needed help.
"We all know the importance of mental health. The 19 councillors here are in a position to make a difference. We're all active on the ground in our communities. Often engaging with people who might find themselves in vulnerable positions as regards housing, finances, isolation, loneliness. We all take phones calls and emails every day and we never know who's at the end of the phone and what kind of a situation they are facing.
Put simply, having the knowledge, skills and confidence to identify and engage with those in crisis, this training can save someone's life.
Completing this training would send a strong message that we support mental health and we can help to break down the stigma associated with suicide and mental health issues," she said.
Cllr Aisling Moran seconded the motion.
"Instead of being councillors, people think we are counsellors. We can give advice and maybe it is not the advice needed," she said.