Thumbs up for the Zero Suicide Alliance
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, launches a new drive to help Londoners support others and prevent suicides in the capital.
During a conference at City Hall the Mayor called for 100,000 Londoners to complete the Zero Suicide Alliance’s free online suicide prevention training so they can help play their part in saving lives. Take the test - play video below.
Suicide is the highest cause of death for people between 15–29 years, with the most disadvantaged groups most at risk. Last week it was revealed that nationally suicide rates are at their highest levels in four years1.
This free 20-minute training – which the Mayor has completed – is designed to show 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 has on people’s lives.
The aim is to break the stigma of talking about the subject, suicidal thoughts and bereavement, and help London become a ‘zero suicide city’. This follows research that shows talking honestly and openly about suicide has helped to save lives2.
The aim is for 100,000 Londoners to complete the training in the next 12 months and Sadiq announced the target at the ground-brreaking conference hosted by Thrive LDN – the citywide social movement, supported by the Mayor, to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Londoners.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Suicide is a tragedy, for those who take their own life and for the loved ones they leave behind. It’s important that we break the stigma of talking about suicide so we can all play our part in helping those in need. That’s why I’m calling on Londoners to take this free online suicide prevention training. Together, by having more open and honest conversations we can support each other and move closer to achieving our ultimate ambition of becoming a zero-suicide city.”
Meanwhile, MET Police Lead for Suicide Prevention, Detective Superintendent Paul Trevers, guest speaker at Mr Khan's conference, highlighted the stark UK suicide statistics.
"2018 saw the most dramatic rise in UK suicides ever to 6507 - equivalent to 11 suicides per 100k people. A review of 507 suicides in London during 2017 reveals that white males were the most “at risk” group for suicide, with Asian and Black communities accounting for 10%. The review also found that London’s East European community, especially women are disproportionately more likely to complete suicide than any other demographic."
During his speech, Mr Trevers praised Youmanity for supporting the Zero-Suicide alliance with our Friend-Ship .
'This is a photography award supported by the Metropolitan Police. It is designed to fight human isolation by encouraging society to recover the value of friendship in our culture. Participants to the award are being invited to take a celebratory portrait of a special person embodying this treasured connection and submit to the Friend-Ship Photography Award."
