World Suicide Prevention Day – 10 September 2025

Every year on 10 September, organisations and communities around the world come together to raise awareness about how we can work together to create a world where fewer people die by suicide.

World Suicide Prevention Day is a chance for everyone to come together, raise awareness, and take meaningful steps towards preventing suicide and supporting those who may be struggling to cope.

Ben Richards, Senior Responsible Officer for the NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System (ICS) Mental Health programme of work, said:

“This World Suicide Prevention Day, we are reminded that early intervention and open conversations can make a real difference in saving lives. By reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help, we can ensure more individuals receive the care and support they need. NHS Talking Therapy Services are here for those experiencing difficulties such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder and PTSD, and anyone can refer themselves online.”

Across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, there are local organisations who can offer urgent support:

• Crisis mental health access via 111: Anyone across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent can now get urgent mental health support, 24/7, by calling 111 and selecting the mental health option. The phone will be answered by a trained mental health professional who will be able to listen to your concerns and help you get the support you need. With your permission, they can also access your electronic patient records to better meet your needs and to avoid you repeatedly having to tell us your situation. They can offer advice over the phone, put you in contact with urgent services or refer you to the most appropriate local services for your needs.
• The crisis service is also available via text for people with a hearing impairment or who are unable to utilise the telephone, In  North Staffordshire please text 07739 775202 and in South Staffordshire text 07739 775202. The relevant team will respond as soon as possible. Please note: this text service is available during the normal service hours and is charged at your network provider’s rate. 
• Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent NHS Talking Therapies: available to people aged 16 and over, experiencing common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and who are registered with a GP practice in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. Self-referrals can be made online via the web link or calling 0300 303 0923. 

If you are concerned about an immediate risk of harm – either to yourself or someone else – then phone 999.