Health and wellbeing
Walsall marks World Suicide Prevention Day with a call to check in, connect and learn
Published on
Residents across Walsall are being encouraged to start conversations, support one another and learn more about suicide prevention this World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September 2026.
This year's theme, "Changing the Narrative on Suicide", encourages people to talk more openly about suicide and mental wellbeing, helping to create a culture of understanding and support.
As part of this year's awareness day, Walsall Council is highlighting the importance of men's mental wellbeing and the role that friends, families, workplaces and communities can play in supporting one another.
Suicide affects individuals, families and communities across the world, including here in Walsall. Recent trend data for England shows a suicide rate of 16.8 deaths per 100,000 males, compared with 5.5 per 100,000 females.
In Walsall, men are recognised as one of the groups at higher risk of suicide and are a key focus of the borough’s Multi-Agency Suicide Prevention Strategy (2024-2029).
Early support, strong social connections and open conversations about mental wellbeing can all play an important role in prevention. Positive relationships, community connections and knowing where to turn for support can help people navigate life's challenges and maintain good mental wellbeing. By encouraging men to stay connected, check in with one another and seek help early, we can build healthier, more resilient communities.
“ World Suicide Prevention Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness, encourage understanding and highlight the support available to people in our communities. This year's theme, 'Changing the Narrative on Suicide', reminds us of the importance of creating an environment where people feel able to talk openly and seek help when they need it.
Across Walsall, partners are working together to promote positive mental wellbeing, reduce stigma and ensure residents know where to access support. I would encourage everyone to take a few moments to check in with friends, family members, neighbours or colleagues, learn more about suicide prevention and help build a community where people feel connected, supported and valued. “
The Men's Wellbeing Alliance is working with partners across Walsall to support the borough's wider men's health and wellbeing campaign, helping men build connections, improve their wellbeing and access support when needed. Through community activities, peer support and local partnerships, the Alliance encourages positive conversations, challenges stigma and helps men stay connected to their communities. World Suicide Prevention Day is one of several opportunities being used to promote these messages and encourage men to look after their wellbeing and seek support when they need it.
“ We want to create a Walsall where no man feels he has to face life's challenges alone. Building connections, looking out for one another and talking openly about wellbeing can have a real impact. World Suicide Prevention Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play, whether that's starting a conversation, listening without judgement or helping someone find the support they need. We are stronger together. “
To find out more and get involved in the Men’s Wellbeing Alliance, visit their website. For details of activities, groups and further support, visit the Men’s Wellbeing Walsall website.
Residents are also being encouraged to complete the free online Zero Suicide Alliance suicide awareness training, which provides practical advice on recognising warning signs, having supportive conversations and helping people access appropriate support.
Anyone concerned about their own mental wellbeing, or worried about someone else, is encouraged to seek support early and access the range of local and national services available.
For urgent support with mental health, call NHS 111 and select option 2 or visit the NHS 111 website. If you would prefer to text this service, contact 07860 025 281. Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123 or by email at jo@samaritans.org.
If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call 999.
- For the latest statistics, visit Suicide Prevention - Data | Fingertips | Department of Health and Social Care.
- The Men’s Wellbeing Alliance brings together local organisations and community partners to help men build connections, improve their wellbeing and find support when they need it. It was founded by The MindKind Projects, Walsall FC Foundation and MettaMinds, with three locally based voluntary and community sector organisations, funded by Walsall Council Public Health.
Further support available
Further support is available in Walsall for a range of issues, including mental wellbeing, bereavement, loneliness, domestic abuse, relationship difficulties, money worries and gambling harms.
- Face-to-face support outside of usual mental health service hours is available at the Walsall Sanctuary Hub: 1 Queen’s Parade, Bloxwich, Walsall, WS3 2EX (Monday – Friday 6 – 11pm; and Saturday and Sunday 12noon – 11pm).
- Further support is available through Walsall Bereavement Support Service, Mustard Seed CIC, Walsall Talking Therapies, and Walsall Council's Gambling Harms Directory, which provides information and support for anyone affected by gambling-related harm.
- For help with domestic abuse and where to get support, visit the NHS website.
- Residents can also find a range of meaningful activities to support their mental wellbeing by visiting the Walsall Wellbeing Directory.
