Why is Real Talk needed?
Research shows that 72% of people who die by suicide do not engage with traditional support services such as their GP or mental health services (1). So Grassroots are reaching out to the community to take action against suicide.
Since 2006 Grassroots has trained over 10,000 people in suicide prevention and mental health awareness. However, we know that the majority of people who attend these courses are professionals, who have a duty of care, and so the underlying messages we teach are not always reaching the wider community. Grassroots believes that suicide can be prevented through open and direct conversations.
“With this context in mind, we recognise a need to reach out to young people and non-professionals, so we can help to create a cultural shift in the way we talk about suicide.” Stella Comber, CEO
Grassroots have partnered with Therapy Partners
Grassroots are partnering with Therapy Partners to connect with young people in Kent, asking them to help shape a new young-people specific Real Talk Workshop.
“We want to remain open to the suggestions of young people and teaching staff, providing space for the potentially innovative ideas offered by the young people who participate.” Alex Harvey, Head of Development
Grassroots are looking to understand the particular barriers facing young people in talking about suicide, and accessing help. In turn, Grassroots are aiming to inspire young people with the confidence and knowledge to support their peers.
The work will be based at Invicta Grammar School in Maidstone, and Mayfield Grammar School in Gravesend, where Therapy Partners are already working, and have a good ongoing relationship with staff and students. Therapy Partners are experienced in taking a creative, co-production approach with children and young people in relation to mental health putting them in a strong position to coordinate and lead the development sessions at the schools.
Crisis resources for young people in Kent
Download the resource list here:
Further training options
Grassroots holds regular suicide prevention and mental health awareness training sessions anyone can book on to.
West Kent Mind also have a range of training opportunities, click here.
References:
- Hewlett, E. and K. Horner (2015), “Mental Health Analysis Profiles (MhAPs): England”