Mental health charity Mind West Cumbria to stop services
The mental health charity Mind West Cumbria has announced it will close at the end of September.
The charity is described as a lifeline to many people in Copeland and Allerdale who are feeling suicidal or have been affected by suicide. Services include counselling, drop-in sessions and family support.
Rod Earl, Chairman of Mind West Cumbria, broke the news on Friday.
The closure of Mind West Cumbria comes after other mental health services announced a 'mental health crisis' in the area.
On average, one in five Cumbrians have suicidal thoughts, one in fifteen will attempt suicide and one person dies from suicide every week, which is much higher than the national average.
The West Cumbrian branch is not the first in Cumbria to close, South Lakeland Mind also stopped their services earlier this year.
The charity, which largely relies on volunteers, is partially funded by members of the community who have raised thousands of pounds over the years.
Mr Earl went on to thank everyone for their donations and fundraising efforts, and to assure people that any remaining funds will be spent on alternative mental health services in the area.
Anyone feeling depressed or suicidal is strongly advised to go to A&E.
People who may be struggling can also seek confidential, free support from The Samaritans by calling 116123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org.
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