This is why you will see little knitted flowers across Wigan borough

Hundreds of handcrafted flowers are being scattered across Wigan borough to remind people that there is always hope.

Made by local community groups and organisations, the carefully crocheted “flowers of hope” are each accompanied by information about where someone can turn when they need support.

The colourful creations have been inspired by the Month of Hope – the annual Greater Manchester-wide campaign bridging World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10) and World Mental Health Day (October 10).

The campaign is about encouraging honest discussions about mental health and well-being, reducing stigma and coming together as a community to prevent suicide.

Coun Keith Cunliffe, Wigan Council’s deputy leader 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.

“Through our Suicide Prevention Partnership and collaborations with other partners and the wider community, here in Wigan borough we’re working hard to break down the stigma around suicide, encourage open and honest conversations about mental health and well-being, provide support to those who need it and spread hope.

“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.”

It’s not the first year flowers have sprung up in the borough during September and October, but this year’s campaign has had a phenomenal response from creative volunteers across the community – with as many as 2,000 being made.

Residents are encouraged to keep an eye out for them in town centres, parks, community venues and other popular locations as well as plenty of other, more unexpected, places.

Anyone who finds one is encouraged to take it home with them for support or pass it on to a friend, family member or colleague who they feel may need it.

Those who have helped make the flowers include the Needles and Natter knitting group, who meet each Tuesday at Chandler House, on Poolstock Lane, Worsley Mesnes, for a knit and a chat.

Group member Shirley 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.”

Launched by North West-based organisation Chasing the Stigma, the Hub of Hope is the UK’s largest and most comprehensive directory of mental health and well-being services.

Free to use online or via a mobile app, it brings together around 14,000 local, national, NHS, community and voluntary sector services, helping more than 300,000 people every year to find the right support, whenever and wherever they need it.

Visit www.hubofhope.co.uk or download the Hub of Hope app from the App Store or Google Play.