World Suicide Prevention Day, Wednesday 10 September
29 Aug 2025
Opportunity to attend an inspiring talk - 'One Man’s Journey from Suicide to Suicide Prevention'.
Content Warning: This article discusses suicide. It also contains information about events that address the topic of suicide.
World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on Wednesday, 10 September. This year’s theme ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’ is a global call to transform how we perceive and talk about suicide, replacing stigma and silence with openness, empathy, and support. The campaign’s clear call to action is ‘Start the Conversation,’ urging individuals, communities, and organisations to initiate honest, compassionate discussions that can help break down barriers and promote awareness and understanding. Championing this initiative is the Samaritans, offering 24/7 emotional support and expertise in ‘How to interrupt suicidal thoughts’ and ‘Ideas for how to support yourself if you’re struggling with suicide thoughts’ resources.
University of Manchester Talk Opportunity
'One Man’s Journey From Suicide to Suicide Prevention' Talk, Wednesday 10th September, 11:00 – 12:30, in-person Uni Place - 6.207
When Billy’s dad died from suicide when he was 12, this changed the course of his life. He soon ended up taking and dealing drugs, joining the army and eventually ending up in prison. Since his release from prison in 2018, Billy has managed to turn his life around and while he still faces mental health and drug dependency issues, he is doing well. Now a family man with a managerial job, he also does important work for suicide prevention including running a support group and raising money through his sporting achievements.
In this talk, Billy will tell his story to raise awareness about suicide. His is a story of hope and we aim that as a result of the event, staff can:
- Increase their awareness of suicide prevention information.
- Importantly learn more about what support is available if you are going through a difficult time.
- Find out more on how to support others around you who may be going through a difficult time.
The following day will be the launch of a book written with Billy edited by academics at the University of Manchester telling his story in order to bring criminological theory to life. You can find out more about this book in the session.
After the talk is finished, there will be hot drinks and cakes available, with the opportunity to chat with others, ask questions to the speakers and importantly talk to someone if you need support.
External Training and Talk opportunities
Monday 1st September, 10:00 – 12:00, Coffee Morning to Raise Awareness of World Suicide Prevention Day, Hosted by The Greater Manchester Bereavement Service.
This event hosted at The House of Book & Friends is an opportunity to learn more about suicide bereavement and how the GM Bereavement Service can support anyone bereaved or impacted by a death.
Wednesday, 10 September 2025, 12:30 – 13:30, Webinar hosted by Mental Health First Aid England: Strengthening suicide prevention across organisations
A free webinar exploring how organisations can take a proactive, informed approach to suicide prevention.
Wednesday 10 September, 3 timeslots available, Zero Suicide Alliance train-a-thon: Free virtual suicide awareness training sessions
Whether you’re new to suicide awareness or want a refresher, these sessions aim to share insights around suicide and tips for how to spot suicide warning signs and offer support.
Where to get help