New remembrance garden at Guy’s Hospital aims to ‘change the narrative’ on suicide

A new garden specifically dedicated to the memory of loved ones lost to suicide was launched at Guy’s Hospital on 10 September to mark World Suicide Prevention Day.

The Suicide Remembrance Garden was opened by Guy’s and St Thomas’ deputy chief nurse Gemma Craig as part of a programme of events raising awareness and sharing advice around suicide prevention.

The new garden, which includes an established remembrance tree and a bench for quiet reflection, is located next to the Memorial Arch at the Guy’s Hospital and King’s College London site. It offers a peaceful, private place for Guy’s and King’s staff, students, patients and any visitors to the hospital to remember friends or family members they have lost.

The garden has been funded by a legacy gift from the estate of Lily Sterner which is held by Guy’s & St Thomas’ Charity specifically for the purposes of mental health initiatives within the Trust.

Jackie Waghorn, the Trust’s mental health lead, who has led on the creation of the new garden, said: “Our opening of this dedicated remembrance garden is just one of the ways we’re seeking to change the narrative on suicide, and I hope this peaceful new space inspires us all to engage in open and honest discussions about suicide.

“The more freely we speak about suicide, the less stigmatised it becomes and the more able people will feel to tell someone and ask for help if they are experiencing thoughts of wanting to end their life. It is important to recognise that asking someone about suicidal thoughts and intentions will not put the idea in their head – in fact, research shows the opposite to be true. Asking a person clearly and directly about suicidal thoughts will offer them the opportunity to tell you how they feel. People who are struggling or have felt suicidal will often say what a huge relief it was to be able to talk about what they were experiencing.”

Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700,000 suicides per year worldwide, with each suicide profoundly affecting many more people.

More information on suicide prevention and where to find advice and support is available on the Guy’s and St Thomas’ website.