By Press Release
A significant chapter in the Men Only IOW Suicide Prevention Initiative unfolded on Tuesday, November 19, at 2 pm—also recognised as International Men’s Day—with the installation of Suicide Prevention signs at the eastern entrance of St. Johns Wood in Ryde. The installation marked an essential first step in a broader campaign to promote mental health awareness and provide immediate support for individuals in crisis.
The signs, designed with input from mental health professionals and community organisations, aimed to connect individuals to local and national resources, such as the Samaritans and other helplines. Strategically positioned at the eastern entrance to St. Johns Wood, they served as a visible reminder that help was always available and that no one had to face their struggles alone.
Karl Hart, Managing Director of Men Only IOW, a key partner in the initiative, commented: “Installing these signs was a tangible step in our ongoing mission to support mental health and prevent suicide across the Isle of Wight. We hoped they would offer a lifeline to anyone feeling overwhelmed, reminding them that there was always someone ready to listen and help.”
This installation took place on International Men’s Day, a date dedicated to highlighting the positive contributions of men to their communities and addressing issues that disproportionately affect men, such as mental health challenges and suicide. The event formed part of a broader community-driven effort to address the mental health crisis that had impacted many individuals and families on the Island. With the support of local organisations, the initiative underscored the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health and fostering a culture of compassion and support.
Cllr. Michael Lilley, whose ward St. Johns Wood is in, commented: “The Isle of Wight has an above average, in fact, high male suicide rate, particularly in Ryde. This includes young and old men who are so severely depressed taking their lives is the only solution. Men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women and four times less likely to seek help. As a community, we must get a strong message out there that there is help, hope and support. Men Only IW is pioneering support for men experiencing loneliness, anxiety and depression and saves lives. These friendly signs in places such as St. John’s Wood in my ward give hope at a moment of despair .”