Delivered by the Violet Project, a Midlands based charity dedicated to creating a world where suicide is no longer considered an option, the sessions were designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence to break stigma, spot warning signs, and take action when it matters most.
The programme focused on embedding support and understanding individual safety plans, the importance of talking openly about suicide and recognising its impact on communities, how to use appropriate language and face difficult conversations with courage, identifying hidden signs of suicidal thoughts, building confidence to respond when someone is struggling, and supporting individuals to create and use personalised safety plans.
It also provided advice on where to turn for help connecting people with life saving support, and how to access practical resources to help build a suicide safer community.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy. By working together across organisations and communities, we can create a culture of compassion, understanding and action.
“This training, for over 70 colleagues at Wolverhampton Homes across 3 sessions, is a vital step in ensuring they are able to support those in crisis and help prevent suicide in Wolverhampton.”
Angela Barnes, Wolverhampton Homes’ Director of Homes and Communities, added: “For those members of staff at Wolverhampton Homes taking part in suicide prevention training, it means they’re not just learning facts – they are building the skills and emotional insight needed to recognise when someone is struggling and respond with empathy, confidence, and care.
“This training empowers us to create a safer, more supportive environment and strengthens our collective ability to intervene early and offer meaningful support.”
As part of the city’s ongoing commitment to suicide prevention, residents and professionals are encouraged to explore further resources available through the Wolverhampton Information Network, including the free 20 minute Zero Suicide Alliance online training, which is open to everyone and available at ZSA Training.
