More than 135,000 Londoners, including the Mayor of London, have now completed suicide prevention training and are helping to play their part in saving lives.

The impressive number far surpasses the original goal to train 100,000 people within twelve months set in September 2019 to mark World Suicide Prevention Day, when the citywide Zero Suicide London campaign launched.

Developed by the Zero Suicide Alliance, the free, online training takes around 20 minutes and is designed to show how to have a direct and honest conversation about suicide and mental health with friends and family.

The #ZeroSuicideLDN campaign is managed by Thrive LDN and supported by the NHS in London. This citywide social movement aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all Londoners and break the stigma of talking about mental health, suicidal thoughts and bereavement.

To mark World Suicide Prevention Day 2020, on Thursday, 10 September 2020 at 11:00, a virtual panel discussion about suicide prevention approaches in London and a review of the campaign will be broadcast on the Thrive LDN website. Guest panellists are from The Zero Suicide Alliance, the Molly Rose Foundation, PAPYRUS, and The Sunflower Project.

Martin Machray, Joint Chief Nurse, NHS England & Improvement (London region), said: “As someone who has lost a loved one from suicide, this is a hugely important issue for me. Some people will find the challenges of COVID-19 harder than others because of their health, where they live or the impact on their financial situation. It has never been more important for each of us to think and talk more about mental health and wellbeing, and to seek help when it is needed. With all of London working together, we can look out for one another, spot the signs and be prepared to save a life. There is support available for whatever you are going through.”

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Suicide is a tragedy, both for those who take their own life and for the loved ones they leave behind, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to reduce the number of suicides in our city.

“That is why I am proud many Londoners have joined me in taking Zero Suicide London’s online suicide prevention training to help play their part in saving lives and to let those who may be struggling know they are not alone.

“These challenging times are taking a toll on many people’s wellbeing so I encourage every Londoner to consider taking the training. Now, more than ever, it is vital we come together to break the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health.”

To find out more about these resources and the suicide prevention training, visit www.thriveldn.co.uk/zerosuicideldn.