Wolverhampton gets behind suicide awareness
The city’s Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum is using the day to raise awareness of local support services
Wolverhampton will join communities around the globe this Wednesday (10 September) to mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2025, shining a light on the importance of mental health and wellbeing.
The city’s Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum is using the day to raise awareness of local support services and to encourage open, honest conversations about suicide – a complex and deeply personal issue that affects many families.
This year continues the global theme Changing the Narrative, urging individuals, communities, and organisations to break down stigma by starting conversations that foster understanding and compassion.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community at the City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “Changing the narrative on suicide means shifting from silence and stigma to openness, empathy, and support – encouraging honest conversations that break down barriers and foster understanding.
"It calls for policies that prioritise mental health, improved access to care, and investment in research. Crucially, it promotes compassion for those struggling, recognising suicidal thoughts as signs of deep distress and advocating for non-judgmental listening and guidance.
"While the topic can be overwhelming for those with lived experience, World Suicide Prevention Day offers a space for awareness, healing, and meaningful participation at every level. Our message is clear: if you or someone you know is in a dark place, don’t suffer in silence – help and support is out there.”
To mark the day, an Unspoken Word poetry event will take place on Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm at The Community Hub, Wolverhampton railway station.
A wide range of local and national services are available for anyone experiencing distress or supporting someone in crisis:
The Samaritans: Call 116 123 or email[email protected] (emails answered within 24 hours).
Rethink Mental Health Support Line: Free 24/7 support on 0800 008 6516.
NHS 111 (Option 2): Urgent mental health advice.
Wolverhampton Talking Therapies: Call 0800 923 0222 or 01902 441856, or email [email protected]
Kaleidoscope Midlands Suicide Bereavement Support Group: Meets first Tuesday of each month, 7.30pm–9pm, Hope Place, High Street, West Bromwich.
Rethink Support After Suicide: For close family members, including children and young people. Call 0800 008 6516 or email [email protected]
Andy Man’s Club: Weekly men’s peer support group, Mondays 7pm, Wolverhampton Science Park (andysmanclub.co.uk).
Men Walking and Talking: Weekly walks in Wednesfield, Wednesdays 7pm, Perry Hall Park entrance.
HOPELINE247 (Papyrus): For anyone under 35 or concerned about a young person. Call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email [email protected].