Many people are unsure how to support families who have lost loved ones to suicide at Christmas. What do you say in a Christmas Card when 'Merry Christmas' doesn't feel appropriate? How do you let the family know they are in your thoughts without saying the wrong thing?

CASPER would like to encourage both bereaved families and their supporters to run a fundraising event in memory of a suicide victim and contribute the funds raised to CASPER's suicide prevention efforts.

We will issue the fundraiser with a certificate acknowledging their contribution to suicide prevention in the memory of their loved one who has died.

As a Christmas gift, this can show a family you not only remember their loved one and acknowledge their loss, but are taking action to prevent suicide in their name.

Almost anything you do can be a fundraising opportunity - a community, street or workplace bbq, a sponsored walk, a gymathon where you get an extended workout sponsored, Guess the weight/number of the cake, the teddy, the jar of sweets or coins – anything! A garage sale, a sponsored dogwalk, a friends/family over for a movie night, a quiz night - the possibilities are endless. Be creative for a good cause.

If you are a family honouring your loved one incorporate an activity they loved into your fundraising event. You will know what feels right.

For information and support information on fundrasing or on CASPER community education, youth education and workplace training media enquiries call our freephone number 0508 CASPER