The NHS has begun rolling out new suicide prevention training for all mental health staff.
The new e-learning course offers practical, evidence-based advice on how to recognise and support people in crisis, including those experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The training builds on new national guidance issued earlier this year, which marked a shift towards a more holistic, person-centred approach to suicide prevention, rather than risk prediction.
Claire Murdoch, national director for mental health at NHS England, said: “As a mental health nurse myself, I know that NHS staff recognise just how crucial it is to support those who are struggling to reach out and get help when at their lowest. And while staff do their best to help all of those who are struggling, today’s e-learning module is a massive step in the right direction as it supports NHS staff with practical ways to help keep people safe.
“The NHS is always evolving to make things better for patients and this latest training builds on the guidance which was spearheaded by the incredible work of Philip Pirie, whose son Tom passed away after being judged low risk of suicide.
“If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, the NHS is always here for you. You can contact your local GP practice directly, self-refer to our world-leading talking therapies programme or, if you’re in crisis, you can now contact NHS 111 for immediate support.”
Minister for mental health, Baroness Merron, said: “Behind every suicide statistic is a person – someone’s child, parent, partner or friend whose life mattered deeply. As a government, we refuse to accept that any life should be lost to suicide when proper support could make all the difference.
“This new suicide awareness course is one of the many ways we are working to reduce the number of lives lost to suicide, including delivering the Suicide Prevention Strategy, rolling out 24/7 mental health neighbourhood centres, and transforming mental health services with an extra £688 million.
“I encourage anyone who is struggling with their mental health to reach out. Our NHS staff are ready to listen and help.”
