World Suicide Prevention Day - 10th September 2025
Tuesday 2nd September 2025
As we mark World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September, we’re reminded of the importance of fostering hope, connection, and support within our school communities.
Suicide is a complex and sensitive issue that can affect anyone - students, staff, and families. Schools are uniquely placed to create environments where people feel safe to speak up and confident in helping others who may be struggling.
One simple but powerful action your school can take is to encourage staff to complete the free 30-minute Zero Suicide Alliance training. This short online course helps staff recognise signs of emotional distress and have supportive, potentially life-saving conversations.
Access the training here: Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA)
Please be mindful of the sensitive nature of the training content. You may wish to complete the training with a trusted friend or colleague or even during a team meeting for peer support. If the training brings up difficult thoughts, please reach out - help is available (further information below).
While much of your focus is on supporting young people, it’s equally important to recognise that staff may also experience emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. Promoting staff wellbeing is a vital part of a compassionate and resilient school culture.
We also encourage you to use this opportunity to:
- Raise awareness through assemblies or tutor time – Support for Schools - How Samaritans helps in schools
- Promote mental health resources for staff and students - Mental Health Home : Wiltshire Healthy Schools
- Encourage open, stigma-free conversations
- Signpost support services available locally - Mental health and wellbeing - Wiltshire Council
- Access or signpost to specialist support if you or someone you know has been bereaved by suicide: Swindon and Wiltshire Support After Suicide.
Together, we can make suicide prevention everyone’s business and ensure that every member of our school communities feels seen, supported, and valued.
