Cheshire West and Chester Council has commissioned artist Mark Titchner to lead the community project in response to rising male suicide rates in the area.
The project aims to create a visual campaign that helps men identify where to turn if they are experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Lisa Denson, the council’s cabinet member for a fairer future, said: “Across the UK, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, which we sadly see reflected in Cheshire West and Chester.
“We know that there is not just one reason that brings someone to the point of thinking of taking their own life, and we also know that men often struggle to talk about how they feel.
“We want to create a visual campaign with men in Northwich and Ellesmere Port that will help other men find and access the support they need when they need it.”
Mr Titchner, known for his work exploring the connection between mental health and visual art, plans to work directly with men and men’s groups in the area.
He hopes to better understand what messages would be most effective, what they should look like, and where they should appear.
Mr Titchner said: “I’m reaching out to men and men’s groups to hear their thoughts, experiences, and ideas – so we can shape the final outcome together.
“Your local insight is vital.
“It will help decide how the campaign looks, where it appears, and how it can best reach those who need it most.”
He has an ongoing collaboration with Bethlem Gallery and has worked extensively with Hospital Rooms, a charity that brings art into mental health settings through workshops and site-specific installations.
Mr Titchner added: “There are many organisations offering support to people in crisis.
“Through this project, we want to raise awareness of where to turn, let people know they are not alone, and encourage them to reach out.”
Men in Northwich and Ellesmere Port are encouraged to share their experiences to help shape the campaign.
More information about the project and how to get involved can be found online.
Anyone in urgent need of mental health support should call 111.
