Men in emotional distress will often bury their feelings out of fear of judgement.

That is why community leaders in Suffolk are pulling together in a bid to strengthen the support available to men living in the county who are experiencing suicidal thoughts.

But first, they are appealing for volunteers to take part in two focus groups in Ipswich to gain views on what the campaign should look like.

Leading the project is Chris Pyburn, from the public health team at Suffolk County Council, which is working alongside Suffolk Libraries and Volunteering Matters.

He said: “We are looking at how they think the support can be improved or what can be done to support men to talk about these issues and seek help if they need it. We find men are more reluctant, generally speaking, to do that.”

The two ‘Suicide Prevention Focus Groups’ are aimed at: Men living in Suffolk and aged 40-60 (Ipswich Library on Wednesday from 6pm to 8pm) and Eastern European men living in Suffolk and aged 20-39 (Burlington Road Church on Thursday from 6pm to 8pm).

Mr Pyburn said men from these communities and age brackets were most at risk of suicide in the county.

Those interested in being involved do not have to have any personal experience of the subject and will not be expected to discuss personal circumstances. Participants will each receive a £10 voucher.

For information contact Mr Pyburn on healthandwellbeing@suffolk.gov.uk or 01473 260094.