I joined the Lived Experience National Advisory Group for StandBy to add my voice, for those bereaved by suicide.  I know the feeling of complete loss and want to do what I can for anyone else who tragically finds themselves in the same place.

What would you like to see the group achieve? I want to make sure that every possible help and kindness is offered to anyone who needs it, and I truly know how important, ‘like for like’ contact is to support those who are heartbroken and trying to stay upright. When someone says they can’t imagine how you feel you truly don’t want them to, but I found that just having the understanding, of someone who has been in your shoes is incredibly important.

What have you gained by taking part?  By taking part in the Lived Experience Advisory Group I have found the support and love of an amazing group of people and an organisation who strive to ease the pain of grief and loss from Suicide.  I found connections to people who understood me without me having to say anything.  The power of Peer to Peer, like for like, connection is so very important.

What would you like the public to know about suicide?            When you lose someone to suicide it is a grief that cannot be explained. I have learnt that together we are very strong and can make a difference to the lives of those bereaved and let know they are not alone. Be gentle with yourself, take baby steps, and reach out when you are ready because help is here for you.