Teen's bridge notes 'help save six lives'
Police have honoured a teen for helping to ‘save six lives’ by attaching uplifting notes to a bridge known as a suicide location.
Paige Hunter, 18, wrote over 40 touching notes and tied them on the Wearmouth Bridge in Sunderland, United Kingdom, to offer comfort to those facing mental health issues.
“Be strong because things will get better. It may be stormy now but it never rains forever,” read one note.
“Pause stop breathe. There are better options and so many people who love you,” read another.
The inspirational teen revealed on Facebook that she posted the notes at the bridge because it was a place where she had “a lot of bad experiences”.
She placed the notes at the bridge to help people feel less alone.
“I hope that these quotes just help that one person to not commit suicide and know that they are worthy of living,” Ms Hunter posted.
The compassionate teen, who works as a sales assistant at variety store Poundworld, was honoured by the Northumbria Police and given a commendation certificate.
“We thought it was important to applaud the work Paige has been doing and the help she has given those in Sunderland who are going through a mental health crisis,” said Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt.
“Paige has shown an incredible understanding of vulnerable people in need of support, and this is an innovative way to reach out to those in a dark place.
“For somebody so young, Paige has shown a real maturity and we thought it would only be right to thank her personally. She should be very proud of herself.”
After she received the commendation, Ms Hunter spoke to Northumbria Police.
“I wasn’t doing this for an award; it was just something that I wanted to do,” she said.
“My family are just proud of me and I’m going to put it up on the wall. I just want to help people and I’ve been told it’s already helped save six lives.”
On Monday, Ms Hunter started a GoFundMe page to raise money for a mental health charity that is yet to be decided.
If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline 13 11 14, Mensline 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.
