Reflection Event in the Borders for People Bereaved by Suicide

A reflection event for people in the Scottish Borders who have been bereaved or affected by suicide will take place on Saturday 14 March at 2pm at The Haining, Selkirk.

This will be the seventh annual event of its kind and will offer an opportunity for quiet reflection and remembrance for those who have lost someone to suicide. The event also aims to raise awareness of the support available to individuals, families and communities affected by suicide.

The event is organised by the After a Suicide Working Group - a group of volunteers with lived experience of suicide bereavement, working in partnership with NHS Borders and Scottish Borders Council. Support on the day will be provided by volunteers from the local Samaritans branch and Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS), who will be available to offer information and guidance.

Those wishing to attend the event should meet at Haining House car park at 2pm, before walking to the Clootie Tree. The event will be led by an interfaith minister and will include time for individual reflection, the tying of ribbons to the tree and a reading of the Clootie Tree poem, which will be displayed near the tree. Following the walk, refreshments and support will be available at Haining House.

Dr Sohail Bhatti, Director of Public Health at NHS Borders, said: “In a close‑knit community like the Borders, the impact of a death by suicide can be felt widely and deeply. For many people, the effects extend beyond immediate family to friends, colleagues and the wider community. We hope this event will provide a supportive space for those who have lost a loved one to come together, reflect and celebrate the lives of those they have lost. It is also an opportunity to reinforce that support is available, and that no one has to cope with the impact of suicide alone.”

If you are having negative thoughts, feeling low with no energy or thoughts of suicide, please talk to someone; speak to your GP, phone NHS24 Mental Health Hub on 111, Samaritans on 116 123 or Breathing Space 0800 838587. For more information on support available for people bereaved or affected by suicide, visit our Creating Hope website.

Further information and registration details for the event are available here.