Free Plymouth events for Suicide Prevention Day

Plymouth residents can join two free community events marking World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10 and Friday 11 September. The first runs from noon to 4.30pm at Methodist Central Hall, followed by a drop-in session from noon to 4pm at Burrington Hub, All Saints Academy.

Both events are open to the general public. Registration is required for the Methodist Central Hall programme, while the Burrington Hub session requires no booking.

Organised by Plymouth City Council’s Public Health team, the events will bring residents together with people who have lived experience of suicidal thoughts or bereavement and organisations providing mental health support across the city.

Lived experience shapes the Methodist Central Hall programme

The main World Suicide Prevention Day event begins with networking at noon on Thursday. Visitors will be able to meet local organisations and learn about available support, training and resources before the wider programme explores this year’s theme, “Impact”.

Speakers and discussions will examine the effect of suicidal thoughts on a person in crisis, the consequences of bereavement by suicide and how challenging stigma can help people seek support. The programme will also consider the difficulties facing children and young people, suicide prevention work already taking place in Plymouth and plans to make the city safer from suicide.

Organisations due to attend include Pete’s Dragons, Andy’s Man Club, Livewell Southwest, Papyrus, Young Devon, CAPE Men’s Mental Health Network and Jeremiah’s Journey.

Plymouth City Council says an average of 20 to 30 people die by suicide in the city each year, with the effects extending to families, friends and colleagues.

Councillor Maria Lawson, the council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said open conversations could challenge stigma and help create communities in which people feel able to ask for support.

Friday drop-in offers space for confidential conversations

The second event takes place at Burrington Hub in All Saints Academy on Friday 11 September. It will operate as a free drop-in space for confidential conversations about suicide and mental health.

People can continue discussions raised during Thursday’s programme or attend only the Friday session to learn about local services. The source describes the hub as open and welcoming, with no advance booking required.

Dates, venues and entry details

Anyone interested in suicide prevention, its effect on individuals and communities, or the support available in Plymouth can attend. The council has not supplied transport or accessibility details in the source notice.

Anyone requiring urgent mental health support should contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option. In an emergency, call 999.

Source: Plymouth City Council