Jim Magilton launches Darkness into Light walk for suicide prevention
Cliftonville manager and former Northern Ireland footballer backs 'the big walk of hope'
Last updated 5th Apr 2025
A former Northern Ireland footballer is backing a major event to help raise awareness of suicide prevention in Northern Ireland.
Jim Magilton is an ex international and is also the current manager of Cliftonville Football Club in north Belfast.
He attended an event in west Belfast on Saturday to help launch the big walk of hope.
The 25k walk across the city, which is split into five 5K walks, aims to raise awareness of suicide prevention and follows the Darkness into Light launch.
Suicide Awareness and Support Group Centre on the Falls Road is also celebrating its 25th anniversary.
Jim told Downtown Cool FM it is a worthy cause:
"It's something that is very close to my heart.
"Anything that can help support, anything that can help save a life is a cause worthwhile.
"You just don't realise what's going on in people's lives, anything that draws attention or brings more awareness around young men, young women who are in that really dark place, anything we can do to raise that awareness is such a worthwhile cause."
Jim also urged anyone struggling to seek help and support:
"If you are in that dark place please reach out.
"Do not think you are alone ever.
"There are people that you can talk to, this is another opportunity, another avenue for people to go and express themselves without fear and hopefully this can help them in some way."
If you or anyone you know is struggling Samaritans can help.
You can call 116 123 anytime for free.