Experts slam the government’s £1.5m plan to create more jail places in England as prisoners’ self-harm rates soar
During her first 24 hours in HMP Styal in December 2020, Francesca Barker-Mills remembers looking for a way to kill herself.
“But I had no access to anything suitable,” she said. “My prison cell was in Covid isolation on the main wing. The wall next to my bed was speckled with blood.”
As her time in the Cheshire prison continued, she found that blood on walls wasn’t unusual. “Blood splatter was a common occurrence,” she said. “Self-inflicted or through violence among the women.”
If you or someone you know are feeling emotionally distressed, the following organisations offer advice and support.
Available for anyone struggling to cope. They provide a safe place to talk 24 hours a day.
Phone: 116 123. Website: Samaritans
A 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone struggling to cope and in need of immediate help.
Text SHOUT to 85258. Website: Shout
Support, practical advice and information to young people considering suicide and can also offer help and advice if you're concerned about someone you know.
Phone: 0800 068 41 41. Website: Papyrus
Support to people suffering distress or despair in Northern Ireland, regardless of age or district.
Phone: 0808 808 8000 (24 hours a day). Website: Lifeline
Emotional support and information on mental health and related matters to people in Wales.
Phone: 0800 132 737 (24/7) or text "help" to 81066. Website: Community Advice & Listening Line
Confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.
Phone: 0800 83 85 87 (Mon-Thu 6pm-2am, weekends 24 hours). A BSL service is also available via the website: Breathing Space
Exists to meet the needs and break the isolation of those bereaved by the suicide of a close relative or friend.
Website: Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide
Confidential, anonymous, non-judgemental support services run by students for students.
Website: Nightlines
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