Over 300 people and 22 organisations across the borough have signed the Solihull Zero Suicide Pledge and Solihull Council is calling for more people to join them to help prevent suicide.
Touchwood Solihull is the latest organisation to sign the pledge which was originally launched in 2018. It is part of Solihull Council’s action plan to reduce suicides in the borough as everybody has a role to play in preventing suicide.
The theme for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day on Saturday 10 September is ‘creating hope through action’ so there is no better time to take the pledge here.
By signing the pledge, people are making a commitment to look after family, friends and colleagues and take 20-minute online training to spot the warning signs in others and signpost them to help.
Organisations are also being asked to make a commitment to look after the wellbeing of their staff and encourage their workforce to sign up to the personal pledge.
Deputy Leader of Solihull Council and Chair of Solihull’s Health and Wellbeing Board, Councillor Karen Grinsell said: “Every life lost to suicide is heart breaking. It’s a tragedy for those that take their own life and for their family, friends, colleagues and community.
“We believe suicide is preventable and want to achieve zero suicides in Solihull. We can all play our part in making this happen by signing up to the Solihull Zero Suicide Pledge.
“The training gives some great advice on how to approach a simple conversation with someone you’re concerned about as quite often this can make a real difference. By looking out for people we are concerned about, we can show them that there is hope, that we care and there is support available.”
Tony Elvin, General Manager at Touchwood Solihull added: “Looking after the wellbeing of our employees and those that shop with us is of paramount importance.
“By signing the Solihull Zero Suicide Pledge we are making a commitment as an organisation to talk openly about suicide and help those in distress. I know it is a difficult subject to approach but talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a life.
“We will be encouraging our employees to make their own personal pledge and take the training so that they feel confident and supported in looking after each other, their family and friends and our customers.”
People of all ages can call the Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health Helpline for emotional help, guidance and reassurance, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0800 915 9292 or 0121 262 3555.
More information on services to support those struggling with their mental health is on the Council website here.