HUNDREDS of colourful, crocheted flowers are popping up across neighbourhoods as part of a borough-wide mental health campaign.
Known as "Flowers of Hope," the handmade blooms are being scattered throughout Wigan Borough in public places and unexpected corners to remind people that help is always available and no one is alone.
Each flower carries information about the Hub of Hope, a website and app that connects people to local mental health support services.
Councillor Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader of Wigan Council and cabinet portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said: "Suicide is a tragedy that continues to impact far too many of us in Wigan Borough and beyond.
"That’s why the Month of Hope is so important; to inspire hope through community, connection and simple acts of kindness, and to make sure people know there is always somewhere for them to turn.
"Our 'Flowers of Hope' are little reminders that you are not alone and there is always someone you can turn to.
"Each one is unique, just like we all are.
"We hope they bring a smile to someone’s face as they go about their day, and remind those who need to hear it that there is always hope."
The campaign supports the annual Month of Hope, a Greater Manchester-wide initiative running from World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 to World Mental Health Day on October 10.
The scheme aims to encourage open conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote suicide prevention.
This year, the response from volunteers has been especially strong, with around 2,000 flowers created by community groups and individuals.
The Needles and Natter knitting group, which meets every Tuesday at Chandler House on Poolstock Lane, is among those who helped bring the project to life.
Shirley, a member of the group, said: "We enjoy crocheting to raise awareness for suicide prevention in the wider community because it combines a relaxing, creative hobby with a deep sense of purpose.
"Crafting the flowers has not only developed our skills, it’s made us feel connected to a caring community.
"Friendships have been formed, and some ladies that haven't done any needlework for a while have once again picked up their needles."
Residents are encouraged to look out for the flowers in town centres, parks, community venues and other public spaces.
Anyone who finds a flower is welcome to take it home for support or give it to someone they feel may need a reminder of hope.
Other contributors include council staff, Wigan & Leigh Pensioners Link, women’s creative group Miss Places CIC, addiction support charity With You, and the Lancashire Wildlife Trust.
Carrie House, community organising officer for the Wigan Greenheart Landscape Recovery Scheme at the Lancashire Wildlife Trust, said: "Mental health and suicide can affect any of us, and it’s so important to keep breaking down the stigma and reminding people that support is out there.
"Through my work, I see every day how much comfort and connection nature can bring – so I hope these handmade flowers bring a little joy, help people feel cared for, and remind anyone who needs it that they’re not alone."
The Hub of Hope, launched by North West-based organisation Chasing the Stigma, is the UK’s largest directory of mental health and wellbeing services, listing around 14,000 local, national, NHS, community, and voluntary sector resources.
Wigan Council was the first local authority in the country to formally adopt the Hub of Hope earlier this year as part of its mental wellbeing strategy.
The platform is free to access online or via a mobile app, and includes a "Get Urgent Help" button connecting users to 24/7 crisis support.
During the Month of Hope, Wigan Borough residents are also encouraged to complete free online suicide prevention training through the Zero Suicide Alliance.
The "Learn to Save a Life" course takes just 30 minutes and is open to anyone aged 16 or over.
More information is available at www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-awareness-training.
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