Zero Suicide Alliance launches new Supporting a Stranger suicide awareness training course
The new training package was made possible thanks to generous donations and fundraising through the Mersey Cares NHS Charity, and focusses on a single, powerful scenario from the ZSA’s flagship Suicide Awareness Training. Based on a real experience, the course shows how an everyday moment in a public place can become a life changing intervention when someone notices the signs of distress and chooses to reach out.
The training also includes practical guidance on personal safety and self care, recognising the emotional impact that supporting someone in crisis can have.
Dr Claire Iveson, Associate Director for Suicide Prevention, Quality Practice and Zero Suicide Alliance, said: “At the ZSA, we design our training to reflect the realities people face every day. We draw on feedback, lived experience and professional expertise to create practical resources that give people the confidence to act when something doesn’t feel quite right.
“Every year, thousands of people in the UK die by suicide, and many of these deaths happen in public spaces. Distress isn’t always obvious, but small signs can indicate when someone needs help.
“The scenario in this course is based on a real situation, and our hope is that by using relatable examples, we can show how everyone can play a role in suicide prevention.”
Fear of saying or doing the wrong thing can stop people from talking to someone when they’re worried. By building awareness and sharing tips that can support conversations, the ZSA hopes more people feel able to show care and compassion in moments that matter.
Pooja Saini, Professor of Suicide and Self‑Harm Prevention at Liverpool John Moores University, said: “Asking directly about suicide does not introduce risk; rather, it offers an essential point of connection for a person in acute distress. In public settings, timely bystander intervention, rooted in compassion and clarity, can interrupt a developing crisis.
“A straightforward, empathetic question can transform a moment of isolation into an opportunity for safety, support and renewed human connection.”
Joanne Watson, Strategic Charity Lead for Mersey Cares said: “We’re proud to support the Zero Suicide Alliance through charitable funding which has made this course possible.
“More than three million people have taken the ZSA’s training across the world, and through charitable funding and donations, Mersey Cares has been able to help expand the ZSA’s training offer and support them to refresh training courses.
“Thank you to everyone who continues to donate and fundraise so we can help fund the amazing work the ZSA is doing.”
