Lighthouse, Belfast

A beacon of hope guiding you towards a brighter tomorrow
Committed to mental health & the prevention of suicide

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Lighthouse is an organisation committed to the prevention of suicide and self-harm; the promotion of positive mental health and the provision of support services to families who have been bereaved due to suicide.

The organisation was established fifteen years ago as a community response to a community problem – the exceptionally high incidence of suicide in North Belfast. The organisation has undergone various stages of growth and change during this time; however, the core purpose of the organisation remains unchanged:

“To save lives, offer advice and support those affected by suicide and self-harm”

Lighthouse also works to remove the stigma associated with suicide and mental health issues through education and awareness activities which promote ‘positive mental health.’

Lighthouse has also been instrumental in highlighting the need to address the problems of suicide and self-harm in a more strategic way and has been a key contributor to the development of Protect Life – the Northern Ireland Suicide Prevention Strategy.

This strategic plan reflects the future direction and focus of our work over the next three years. In this planning period Lighthouse is conscious of the need to build sustainability and strives to maintain its reputation as a centre of excellence in the provision of these services to those in need.

Our Vision, Mission and Values
Mission
To be an organisation at the heart of the community that works to prevent suicide and provides a beacon of hope to those affected by suicide.

Vision
An emotionally resilient community with positive mental health and fewer people at risk of suicide.

I need help for myself
Our Counselling and Crisis Support service is focussed on those individuals residing in BT13, 14, 15, 36 areas and our Suicidal Bereavement Support service works with individuals who are living further afield.

I know a friend or family member who needs support
Signs and Symptoms
If you’re worried that someone you know may be having problems affecting their mental health would you know what to look out for?

• they may be more irritable than normal, with the smallest thing causing them to get annoyed with themselves or others around them
• they may be spending more time alone and not want to go out and do the things they normally enjoy doing
• they may complain of feeling tired and have disturbed sleep patterns
• they may be skipping meals or eating more than normal
• you may notice that they are using alcohol, drugs

What should I do?
If you are worried or concerned about someone else, talk to them about your concerns. Ask them how they are feeling and if there is anything you can do to help them. Tell them that you have noticed that they “haven’t been themselves” recently.

The worst thing that can happen is that they will tell you to mind your own business, but at least they will see that you cared enough to ask.

Even knowing that someone else has taken the time to notice how they are feeling can be helpful in itself and may encourage them to get help for themselves.

Referring a Client for Help
Lighthouse accepts referrals from a wide range of professionals. We’ve put together this information to ensure that we can meet your client’s needs please so please review the criteria below before filling out the referral form.

We recommend that professionals speak with the agency to check suitability before making a referral and must have sought permission from their client.

All of our services with the exception of our family support service, are for those individuals residing in BT13, 14, 15, 36 only.