​16 teams to take part in 5-a-side tournament in Edinburgh as part of the Choose Life campaign

Sixteen Scottish football teams are preparing to kick off world suicide prevention week with the goal of highlighting issues and services available.

The Choose Life Challenge Cup takes place in Edinburgh on 6 September on the eve of the week which runs from 7 to 13 September.

It is part of the Choose Life campaign which in turn is part of the national strategy and action plan to prevent suicide in Scotland.

Last year there were 795 suicides recorded in Scotland with the rate for men more than three times that of women.

Tournament organiser John Murphy, a project worker with Health in Mind, says the recent suicide of Robin Williams highlighted how suicide can affect anyone and how it is something we all need to be aware of with regards to family, friends and colleagues.

He continued: “If there’s someone you know who you think might be considering suicide; ask them and be willing to listen and encourage them to get help – you could help save their life.

“Alternatively if you are feeling suicidal, don’t hide it; find someone you trust and talk to them.”

The tournament will run from 9.30am until 12.30pm at Gracemount Leisure Centre and as well as 14 men's five-a-side teams it will also feature two women’s sides for the first time.

To find out more, contact John Murphy on 0131 663 1616.