Walsall Suicide Prevention Strategy to be refreshed

The Walsall Multi-Agency Suicide Prevention Strategy 2018-2023 is set to be refreshed with actions and recommendations for 2024 to 2029, following the Walsall Suicide Prevention engagement event which was held on 30 January 2024 at Manor Farm Community Association.

The refreshed strategy will build on learning from the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 Walsall Suicide Prevention Audit.

Around 80 individuals from more than 60 organisations attended the engagement event. These included the Council, NHS, Housing partners, Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), Education, the Police and partners from the Voluntary and Community Sector.

The event included an overview of progress since the launch of the 2018-2023 Suicide Prevention Strategy. It provided an outline of Walsall suicide data, suicide prevention measures from the perspective of Mental Health Services (Black Country Healthcare Foundation Trust) and core services delivered by Rethink Mental Illness. 

It also set out the approach being taken to refresh the Walsall Suicide Prevention Strategy, with guidance on suicide and self-harm and evidence of best practice. Discussionshighlighted those who are at higher risk of suicide, including men, people who are neurodivergent and people affected by domestic abuse.

Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Wellbeing, Leisure and Public Spaces at Walsall Council, said:

“The five-year strategy will place an emphasis on more organisations working together to make suicide prevention a priority and a strategic focus. The strategy will contribute to improving the wellbeing of our population and the ability of our communities to recognise and learn how to support and appropriately intervene if people are in distress.

“We’re currently working with Birmingham Mind to offer free mental health and suicide prevention training to all Walsall residents. These are half-day sessions which can be done online or face-to-face at our community venues across the borough. I would encourage anyone who would like to learn more and improve their understanding about mental health and suicide to book onto a session.

“We recognise that suicide is a distressing topic. If you need to speak to anyone or would like support, don't hesitate to contact Black Country 24/7 Urgent Mental Health Helpline Support at 0800 008 6516 or text 07860 065 168.”

To book on to the local suicide prevention and mental wellbeing training, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/cc/walsall-mental-health-suicide-prevention-courses-2591059

If you are affected by suicide and would like support, please contact Black Country Support After Suicide Service - blackcountrysupportaftersuicide@rethink.org