Simply saying 'hello, how are you?' can be all it takes to save a life on the River Thames
Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has launched a new campaign to help reduce the number of deaths on the River Thames.
The Duke is campaigning to raise awareness through the National Drowning Prevention Strategy, which exists to reduce accidental drowning fatalities in the UK by 50% by 2026. He also wants to encourage people to step-up and help others if they can.
Prince William met with bereaved parents and families who have lost a loved one through accidents, drowning or suicide on the Thames. Around 700 life-threatening incidents take place each year, with more than 30 deaths.
Speaking at the campaign launch in London this week, the Duke explained that by simply saying ‘hello, how are you?' is sometimes all it takes to save a life, reports ITV.
"Providing and maintaining life-saving equipment along the river, and reducing opportunities to enter the Thames, is very, very much needed. Prevention also includes the vital work done by so many frontline staff. And of course prevention involves all Londoners."
"Everyday people, going about their commute or on their journey to the pub, have a hugely important role to play. Don’t be afraid to stop and intervene if you see someone who might be considering taking their own life," Prince William continues.
Jonny Benjamin, a mental health advocate who was rescued by a passer-by from a suicide attempt back in 2008, spoke at the launch about the man who saved him: "He listened in a way I sort of hadn’t been listened to before, with real patience and no judgment. I can honestly say I wouldn’t be here without that intervention. It saved my life."
Recently, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also launched a new mental health charity Shout, along with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. It aims to provide a 24/7 text service for anyone who is in need of help.
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