Hundreds of people walked in west Belfast on Sunday morning for an event called Out of the Darkness: A Walk of Hope. The event took place as the sun rose and aimed to remember individuals who died by suicide.

West Wellbeing, a community-run mental health support service, organised the walk. A memorial wall opened at the Dairy Farm Shopping Centre, where families placed photos of loved ones who died by suicide.

Chloe Hilling walked with her family in memory of her partner Gary, who died by suicide on 23 January. She noted the large turnout provided support for those facing mental health struggles and emphasised the value of talking to others.

Colette Madden attended for her daughter Aoife, who died by suicide on 8 August 2021. She stated that West Wellbeing's support had been essential for her family, including Aoife's young son, and the event fostered a sense of community.

Maureen McCarthy joined with her family to honour her brother Brian, who took his own life in November 2024. She highlighted how the gathering helped address feelings of isolation and guilt common after such losses.

Eileen Morgan remembered her son, who died by suicide six years ago. She participated in the West Wellbeing community choir and credited local groups with improving her mental health.

Bernadette Hagans, an ambassador for West Wellbeing, hosted the event. Official figures record 290 suicide deaths registered in Northern Ireland in 2024.