The city’s Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum is using the day to raise awareness of the support available to anyone experiencing distress or despair, and to encourage open, honest conversations around suicide – a complex and deeply personal issue.
This year’s theme is the second year of 'Changing the Narrative', calling on individuals, communities, and organisations to Start the Conversation – breaking down stigma and fostering understanding through dialogue.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, 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, and 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 World Suicide Prevention Day there will be an Unspoken Word poetry event on Wednesday from 3pm to 5pm at The Community Hub, Wolverhampton railway station.
Meanwhile, there is a range of help and support available across the area for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair. If you are having a difficult time or if you are worried about someone else, contact The Samaritans on 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org. Emails will be replied to within 24 hours.
The Rethink mental health support line is available to residents of all ages who are experiencing mental distress and require urgent support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by calling 0800 008 6516.
For urgent support you can contact NHS 111 and select Option 2 for mental health advice.
Wolverhampton Talking Therapies – for people experiencing common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety and stress – can be contacted on 0800 923 0222 or 01902 441856 or by emailing bchft.wolverhamptontalkingtherapies@nhs.net.
The Kaleidoscope Midlands Suicide Bereavement Support Group offers a safe space for people aged over 18 who have lost someone to suicide. It meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 7.30pm to 9pm at Hope Place, High Street, West Bromwich B70 8LU.
Rethink Support After Suicide offer support for close family members including children and young people who are bereaved by suicide. Their service offers one to one practical support, Suicide Bereavement Counselling and Bereavement Peer Support Groups. Call 0800 008 6516 or email blackcountrysupportaftersuicide@rethink.org.
Andy Man’s Club meets every Monday 7pm at Wolverhampton Science Park - find out more at Andy Man’s Club. Meanwhile, Men Walking and Talking holds mental health walks in Wednesfield, giving men a safe space to open up about their mental health and support each other. Meet at the entrance to Perry Hall Park, WV11 3RT, on Wednesdays at 7pm.
If you are having thoughts of suicide or are concerned for a young person who might be you can contact HOPELINE247 for confidential support and practical advice. Call 0800 068 4141, text 88247 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org. For more information, please visit Papyrus.
There are a range of resources, including online training, offered by the council and Suicide Prevention Stakeholder Forum, which can be found on the Wolverhampton Information Network.
