World Suicide Prevention Day – 10th September 2024

 

World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on the 10th September and provides an opportunity to raise awareness and take meaningful action to prevent suicide and support those who may be struggling. This years theme is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," with the call to action "Start the Conversation." 

 This theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent suicides. Every conversation, no matter how small, contributes to a supportive and understanding community. By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create better cultures of support.

 In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, we would like to highlight some of the key mental wellbeing support available to you:

 

Suicide Awareness eLearning Module

Provided by the charity Zero Suicide Alliance and endorsed by the Royal College of Nursing, this short course is available to all staff and provides participants with the skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide. To find out more and access the training, please click here. 

 

Staff in Mental Health Crisis - Manager Guidance 

Our Staff in Mental Health Crisis Guidance aims to equip and help managers to understand what is meant by a mental health crisis, recognise the signs when a member of staff may be experiencing a mental health crisis, provide a step-by-step guide of how to support the member of staff and also how to take care of themselves.

 

Mental Health First Aiders

Our network of MHFAiders® are based across campus and are trained in offering help to a person experiencing  mental health difficulties, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health issue or are in a mental health crisis. MHFAiders® are not medical professionals, but have useful information on signposting staff and students to the correct services, and offering instant support when needed. To contact Mental Health First Aiders or to find out more click here.  

 

Staff Wellbeing Confidential Support 

The Staff Wellbeing Confidential Support is the University's external provider of wellbeing support. The organisation that provides this service offers FREE, completely confidential support to ANY staff member on a wide range of wellbeing issues such as anxiety, stress, bereavement, family difficulties, financial concerns etc.

 You can contact them 24/7 about any issue that is affecting your wellbeing - it doesn't have to be work-related. You can call the confidential phone support line 24/7 on this number - 0330 380 0658 or 08000239324 (freephone).