Expansion of suicide prevention resources: Three new centers established in Diocese of Mainz

Expanded Suicide Prevention Access Points Instituted in Diocese of Mainz - Expanded Suicide Prevention Hubs Launched within Mainz Diocese: Three New safe havens established

Caritas Germany is taking significant steps to increase its support for young people in need. The organisation currently offers assistance at 11 locations across the country, and this number is set to grow.

In a recent development, the Diocese of Mainz has opened three new locations for online suicide prevention counseling in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim. These new centers will be staffed by young volunteers, recruited and trained by Caritas of the Diocese of Trier.

The young volunteers, known as "peers," will provide peer support and assistance in suicide prevention. This approach is seen as crucial by Caritas President Eva Welskop-Deffaa, who believes that young people need different access points than older people.

Interested volunteers aged 16 to 24 can apply for these roles. They will receive comprehensive training from professional counselors, with ongoing support provided post-training.

Initially, the new positions will be funded by Caritas' own funds. However, starting in 2028, Caritas plans to finance these locations, as well as all other U25 locations, using federal funds.

This expansion follows the opening of three online suicide prevention counseling locations by the Diocese of Mainz earlier this year. Caritas Germany has been offering free and confidential counseling to young people since 2001, and last year, around 1,700 young people were supported by the organisation.

The Diocese of Trier is also preparing to recruit and train young volunteers for counseling young people up to the age of 25. This move is part of Caritas' commitment to providing comprehensive support to young people in need.

In light of these developments, Caritas President Eva Welskop-Deffaa has called for a much-needed suicide prevention law that takes into account the needs of young people. She believes that such a law is essential to ensure that all young people in Germany receive the support they need.

As Caritas Germany continues to expand its suicide prevention efforts, it remains committed to providing a safe, confidential, and supportive environment for young people in need. With the addition of the new locations in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim, more young people will have access to the help they need.