High Hopes Choir to mark Suicide Prevention Day with performance on Kennedy's Quay

The Cork High Hopes Choir will gather at 8pm on Thursday evening with friends on Kennedy’s Quay for its 12th annual World Suicide Prevention Day gathering.

The event will open with pipers from the Ballyphehane Pipe Band and will also feature music from Martin Leahy and Lottie.

Caitríona Twomey of the High Hopes Choir said the theme of this year’s gathering will be ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’.

“The event will bring people together to raise awareness and create more opportunities for open compassionate conversations,” Ms Twomey said.

“By talking, listening and reaching out, we can support family members, friends, colleagues and neighbours who may be struggling.”

Among the groups attending will be Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery, Mallow Search and Rescue, Crosshaven Coast Guard, The Samaritans, Shine A Light, Clonakilty Mental Health Awareness, Sexual Violence Centre Cork, and others.

“Our big bears will be driven around the city and suburbs once again by our motorbike friends to help bring awareness to our communities,” Ms Twomey added.

“We will have guest speakers on the night including Blood Bikes’ Richie Bollard, Mary Crilly, and Handsome Bob O’Donovan.”

The HSE National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) has five key messages ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day 2025:

Reach Out and Check In – Take time to connect with people around you. A simple check-in can bring hope and make a real difference.

Your Words Matter – Speak with kindness and empathy when talking about suicide.

Everyone affected – whether they’ve lost someone or struggled themselves – deserves dignity and respect.

Be Safe Online – Share information about suicide or self-harm responsibly and supportively. Help create a safer, more sensitive online space for everyone.

Let’s Talk About Suicide – Build your suicide prevention skills. Learn how to spot signs and support someone – you could help save a life.

Know Where to Get Help – Familiarise yourself with local and national supports and services. Knowing where to turn can make a meaningful difference.

Useful contact details include: www.yourmentalhealth.ie which is also available on 1800 111 888.

Pieta House - 1800 247 247.

The Samaritans 116 123 or text ‘help’ to 087 2609090.