THE council is encouraging people to ‘make time to show concern for the mental wellbeing of colleagues’ as part of World Mental Health Day today, Tuesday.

The theme for this year’s event is ‘mental health in the workplace’.

People are being encouraged to look after their own mental wellbeing at work, inspire colleagues to look after theirs, support colleagues who have mental health problems and to challenge stigmas.

Cllr Pat Wright, executive board member for statutory health and adult social care, said: “Having a conversation about mental health at work doesn’t have to be difficult.

“I would encourage people to talk about mental health and wellbeing and make time to show concern for the mental wellbeing of colleagues.

“It is vital we seek support ourselves, if our work environment has a negative impact on our own mental wellbeing or the mental wellbeing of our colleagues.

“By doing this we will help to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.”

Mayor Cllr Les Morgan and mayoress Gwyn are joining the team and supporters of Warrington-based charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide on its annual HOPEWalk later today.

The walkers will meet at the Golden Gates at 5pm, setting off for a walk around the town for up to two hours before returning to the charity’s office on Milner Street.

For more information about the HOPEWalk call 572444 or visit papyrus-uk.org/get-involved/fundraise-for-papyrus/papyrus-hopewalk-2017.

There will also be a health and wellbeing event taking place at The Gateway, on Sankey Street, from 1pm to 6pm today.

If you are finding it hard to cope, are feeling desperate or are having thoughts of suicide, you can talk to your GP, or call the Warrington assessment team on 666647.

You can also call the Samaritans on 116123, PAPYRUS HOPELineUK for young people on 0800 068 4141, or CALM (for men) on 0800 58 58 58 (5pm to midnight).

These three charities support people who are in distress, are feeling suicidal or who are worried about a friend or family member.