Thank you to everyone who attended the West of England Suicide Prevention Summit, which took place on Wednesday 16 June 2021.

The Summit welcomed health and care leaders, representatives from voluntary sector organisations, mental health practitioners, and members of the public with lived experience from across the area. During the event, we heard from a range of speakers who shared their innovative suicide prevention initiatives, including a self-help community group; a talking group for men; and a new bereavement support service launching locally.

The virtual gathering, organised by the Independent Mental Health Network (IMHN) in collaboration with local partners, also heard about projects aiming to prevent suicide at a national level. Alongside hearing presentations, attendees also had the opportunity to connect in smaller groups throughout the event, to reflect and build on what has been achieved so far – as well as to share their ideas for future priorities that will help tackle suicide.

The event also saw the launch of the Suicide Prevention Initiative – which calls for 10,000 people in the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire areas to complete the Zero Suicide Alliance’s free online training so more people can play a part in saving lives. This training shows how to have a direct and honest conversation about suicide with friends and family. It combines facts with real life stories to show the impact it can have on people’s lives. The training takes 20 minutes – complete it today!

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