With World Suicide Prevention Day coming up this Friday 10 September, Solihull Council is encouraging residents to take free online suicide awareness training to help save lives.
Suicide is a tragedy for those that take their own life and for their family and friends. It is a preventable death which is why Solihull Council is working with partners across the borough to prevent suicide.
In just 30 minutes the free online training by Zero Suicide Alliance gives people the skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide.
The training helps people to understand the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding suicide by encouraging open conversations about it and helping people get the support they need.
People can take the in-depth suicide awareness 30 minute training now using this link: www.zerosuicidealliance.com/training
Leader of Solihull Council, Councillor Ian Courts who has personally been affected by suicide said: “Every life lost to suicide is heart breaking, causing a torrent of grief amongst family, friends, colleagues, schools and the community.
“Everyone can play a part in helping to prevent suicide so I encourage you to please take 30 minutes out of your day to take the suicide awareness training.
“The training will help you recognise the warning signs. It gives some great advice on how to approach a simple conversation with someone in need - as quite often this can make a real difference.”
Deputy Leader and Chair of Solihull’s Health and Wellbeing Board, Councillor Karen Grinsell added: “If you are concerned about a family member or friend, talk to them and let them know that support is out there.
“I know it is a difficult subject to approach but the training from Zero Suicide Alliance will help you to do this. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.
“There is a wealth of support both locally and nationally to help people of all ages who may be struggling with their mental health.”
The Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Helpline is open 24/7 on 0800 915 9292 / 0121 262 3555 for confidential emotional help, guidance and reassurance with whatever issues people are facing.
The Waiting Room provides links to hundreds of health and wellbeing services across Solihull and Birmingham including support for abuse, sexuality, therapeutic support and mental health.
The Cameron Grant Memorial Trust supports mental health in young people. A free, confidential, 24/7 text support service is available. Text CAM to 85258.
Kooth provides free counselling, advice and support online for young people aged 11 to 25 in Solihull.
Solar provides support for those aged up to 19. Parents/young people can self-refer to the service using their website. Young people can also ring 0121 262 3555 for urgent mental health help.
Samaritans provides a free 24 hour helpline on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
Papyrus works to prevent young suicide and their helpline is available from 9am to midnight for anyone struggling under the age of 35, 0800 068 4141, text 07860039967, email pat@papyrus-uk.org.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) has a national helpline and web chat for anyone struggling – 5pm to midnight, 7 days a week, 0800 585858.