An Ipswich funeral home has revealed a taboo-breaking window display which is encouraging men to speak up about their mental health.

The Co-op funeralcare, on Dale Hall Lane, partnered with MANUP? has revealed a window saying ‘men can talk about more than sports’ to try to start conversations with the neighbourhood.

According to the Samaritans, suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 and in 2022 three quarters of suicides were men. 

Vanessa Whight, funeral arranger at Co-op Funeralcare Ipswich, said: “The window display has been a success in the community with one brave individual already getting in touch.

"It has also allowed for a conversation to be started around men’s mental health, which we know isn’t always easy for people to do. We want to encourage more people to reach out to MANUP? in the future – even one person’s life changed or saved is a massive step forward.”

Lauren Girling, funeral arranger at Co-op funeralcare Ipswich, said it was important to support the charity and signpost people to reach out.

She said: “In funeral care, we sadly see first hand the impact of male suicide, so we’re committed to help in any way we can."

To get in touch with MANUP? visit their website.