St Helens Borough Council supports Zero Suicide Alliance "Train-a-thon" for World Suicide Prevention Day
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday 10 September, St Helens Borough Council is supporting the Zero Suicide Alliance 'Train-a-thon' - a series of free, virtual awareness training sessions designed to help people feel confident in having potentially life-saving conversations.
Article date: 9 September 2025
The 90-minute sessions provide participants with the knowledge and confidence to:
Recognise the warning signs of suicide
Ask the right questions with empathy and clarity
Understand what to do if someone shares that they are struggling
Learn from real lived experiences
Access resources and further support
Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, said:
"Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy that deeply affects families and communities.
"These sessions are practical, insightful and will give you the tools to recognise the warning signs of suicide and ask the right questions with confidence.
"Whether you're completely new to suicide awareness or simply looking for a refresher, this training offers vital skills that could help you support someone at their lowest point.
"By building confidence and awareness, we can all play a role in suicide prevention."
Each session also includes a live Q&A with experts, and attendees will receive a certificate of attendance.
Sessions will take place at various times throughout the day, from 10:00am-11:30am, 1:00pm-2:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm.
For more information and to register, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/zsa-train-a-thon-2025-registration-1565741267279
For residents interested in completing suicide awareness training but are unable to take part on the day, free training is available by visiting: https://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/
Last week, St Helens Borough Council approved a suicide prevention report which sets out a series of recommendations to strengthen efforts across the borough, including expanding suicide awareness training, strengthening crisis response models, as well as ensuring coordinated, evidence-based action across local agencies.
On Tuesday 30 September from 6:30pm, St Helens Borough Council - together with a number of partners - will host a suicide memorial event in St Helens Town Hall which offers a compassionate and supportive space for anyone affected by suicide.
The event is free to attend, but booking is required. To reserve a place, please visit: https://StHelens-Suicide-Memorial-2025.eventbrite.co.uk
If you are in need of local mental health support services, please visit: https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/article/1692/Find-mental-health-support