'Speak Their Name' Memorial Quilt on campus (TRIGGER WARNING)

From Tuesday 10 December through to Friday 3 January, the University is honoured to host the Memorial Quilt created by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight “Speak Their Name” group.

The organisation seeks to support those who have lost a loved one to suicide, and the Memorial Quilt forms an ongoing and powerful artwork. Each square of the quilt has been created by someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, and captures the essence of, or something meaningful about, the person who died.

The Quilt is currently touring public spaces in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, providing a space to remember those who have died, whilst provoking conversations and raising awareness about suicide loss and the profound effect it has on so many.

It's been estimated that for every person who tragically ends their life by suicide, 10 to 15 people are intimately affected by their death, and up to 135 people may be more distantly affected. The intention behind The Memorial Quilt exhibition is to bring care and healing to those who have lost a loved one, and to provide hope to those who may be struggling themselves.

The Memorial Quilt is displayed in the library main foyer and the library team have generously allowed the space, and the sofas in this area, to be used by visitors.

Resources and Support

If you are concerned about a fellow student, you can visit the Student Hub for further advice and support or email the team on student.hub@solent.ac.uk.

In a life-threatening emergency call 999 or visit A&E.

If you have non-life threatening concerns about a mental health problem and need help, you can:

• Call 111 and select the 'mental health' option – this is how to access the NHS urgent mental health triage helpline 24/7 for all ages. You can also go to 111.nhs.uk
• Text “HANTS” to 85258 – for 24/7 crisis text support
• Call on 0800 58 58 58 or use their webchat from 5pm to midnight everyday if you are struggling and need to talk
• Text “LIGHTHOUSE” and your postcode to 07451276010 between 4:30pm-12am (e.g. LIGHTHOUSE SO14 0YG) for urgent support. The Lighthouse will then contact you by phone or text. Please note this is only open to those over 18 years of age and living in Southampton

• Samaritans
• If you need immediate help, you can contact the Samaritans at 116 123 (free phone). They offer a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer writing down your feelings or are worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email them at jo@samaritans.org.
• University Mental Health and Wellbeing Team
• Our Mental Health and Wellbeing team at Solent is here to support you. Whether you’re struggling with your mental health or just need someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to reach out. Find out more about Wellbeing Services >
• Student Assistance Programme (SAP)
• Our SAP is provided by the external company Health Assured and offers a complete support network including expert advice and compassionate guidance, covering a wide range of issues. Health Assured’s SAP offers cover for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Find out more here.
• Amparo
• Amparo offers confidential emotional and practical support to individuals and families affected by suicide across several regions in the UK, including tailored assistance with legal matters, media inquiries, and connecting to local resources.
• Papyrus

• PAPYRUS is a UK charity dedicated to preventing young suicide, offering confidential support, resources, and practical advice through its HOPELINE247 service for those struggling with suicidal thoughts or concerned about someone else.

• Steps 2 Wellbeing

Steps 2 Wellbeing (or Talking Therapies) provides a range of free treatments for mild to moderate common mental health problems like depression, anxiety, stress, and low mood. For more information and access to online resources, visit Steps 2 Wellbeing. You can refer yourself online or by phone.

• Solent Mind

Solent Mind offers a variety of mental health services to provide practical support that empowers you to move forward. Find peer support groups, a telephone support line, webchat and horticultural (gardening) therapy. For guides and toolkits, visit their online resource library.

Solent Mind also offer peer support projects called Side by Side. These provide a range of community-based groups and activities all run by and for people with experience of a mental health issue. From art, craft, walking, photography, gardening, and board games to general social groups.

• SO: Linked Community Navigators

Mental Health Community Navigators from Solent Mind can support you with your mental health and connect you with local activities, groups, advice, and support services. To find out more go to SO:Linked. You can refer yourself online or by phone.