A suicide-prevention centre in New Ferry is reaching out to the community to ensure that dark thoughts don't go unnoticed during Covid-19.

The Martin Gallier Project is letting the local area know that their support is still available by sending out packs including teabags for a 'virtual brew' and packets of seeds for people to grow at home.

The suicide prevention centre usually operates on a 'doors open, kettles on' basis. Whilst the project is still open to offer support, this is now being done on an appointment only basis to ensure that people are able to socially distance within the building.

They have replicated their services to continue over the telephone and set up a crisis line system along with a buddy peer support service.

Jessica Gallier, CEO of the project, told the Globe: "We know how hard it is to pick up the phone and admit you are considering suicide, by inviting people to join us for a virtual brew we are offering those most vulnerable in our communities a really simple way to ask for help.

"The seeds of hope have been included in the packs with the aim that people will keep us up to date with the progress of their flowers meaning we can keep channels of communication open with them and check in on them from time to time."

Support for those in suicide crisis is more important than ever with factors such as social isolation, domestic violence and financial hardship increasing daily.

The Martin Gallier Project, who saved over 400 lives in 2019 are more determined than ever to make a difference to the ever rising suicide statistics.

Miss Gallier added: "The seeds symbolise new life and brighter futures whilst encouraging us all to get outside. We are desperately missing our drop in service and the people who visit us, keeping in touch with them has been our priority thus far.

"Now it's time to reach out and make sure that no one else is suffering in silence."

Miss Gallier has said that suicide rates are set to rise during and following the Covid-19 pandemic, along with domestic violence. Whilst provisions for the rise are unclear, community projects like this are more needed than ever.

The letters will initially be delivered to the New Ferry/ Port Sunlight area however the project is hoping to distribute on a larger scale should local organisations be willing to back the campaign.

If you are concerned about someone you know, you can email triage@gallierhouse.co.uk with their home address and a pack will be sent out to them anonymously.

For more information about The Martin Gallier Project please visit www.gallierhouse.co.uk

Anyone can contact Samaritans for FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, Other services available include the Papyrus Hopeline on 0800 068 4141, Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide on 0300 111 5065, Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) on 0800 58 58 58, Mind on 0151 512 2200, NHS 111 or Wirral Pathfinders on 0151 334 2111.