LIMERICK Suicide Watch (LSW) have launched a new mobile phone app which is designed to provide a one-stop-shop for many of the mental health service providers in Limerick City and County.
The app, which will be updated regularly, will make it easier for families and people in distress to access information on any services they need.
LSW public relations officer Lucy O’Hara told the Limerick Post that the group had noticed that many people they come in contact with are simply not aware of the many services throughout Limerick that are available to them.
We are hopeful that the app will create the awareness of these services that may save a person’s life,” she explained.
The group initially used the app to help with scheduling nightly patrols and rosters, but decided to develop it further for public use. It will be frequently updated with local event details such as self-care workshops, exhibitions, family fun days and plans for Limerick Mental Health Week.
“We are extremely grateful to Declan Hayes and his team from Appiercom who are based in Castletroy, for supporting and creating this magnificent app for us free of charge,” said Lucy.
LSW chairman Colm O’Byrne said the app is designed to be user friendly and is geared towards all ages from teenagers to senior citizens from all walks of life.
“The intention is to make it easier for everybody to access information regarding services and tools to manage their own mental health,” he explained.
Colm said LSW currently has 62 volunteers and a waiting list of people who want to join. The group currently patrols the Shannon four nights a week, but plans to increase this to seven in the near future.
Established in May 2016, LSW volunteers patrol the bridges and rivers of Limerick City. They rely entirely on donations from the public, which goes towards training, insurance and equipment.
All members have Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) training, they have taken courses in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), defibrillator training, First Aid, Self harm Awarness and child protection courses.
There are normally have ten members on patrol each night consisting of three teams. Two foot patrols of four on each team and two bikes on patrol. After an intervention, support is offered to all members and there is a counsellor available to them.
