10/09/2026
Adult Mental Health Services are recognising World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September 2026) with the launch of a new Safety Planning Video resource for those struggling with their Mental Health (below).
Speaking on the launch of the Western Trust’s Safety Planning Video, Colleen Harkin, Assistant Director of Adult Mental Health Services in the Trust said:
“The Western Trust recognises the importance of promoting positive mental health. The Trust is part of the Northern Ireland Regional Towards Zero Suicide (TZS) Safety Collaborative, which researches and adopts best practice in suicide prevention.
“Each Trust across Northern Ireland has adopted the TZS Collaborative Safety Plan, which is an integral part of the Suicide Prevention Care Pathway. A Safety Plan is a personalised plan that supports individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress. The Safety Plan is developed collaboratively with the individual, a practitioner, a carer/supporter, or a family member. It identifies practical coping strategies and sources of support that can be drawn upon during difficult times.
“I am delighted to launch this Collaborative Safety Plan video, developed by Trust Adult Mental Health staff. The video highlights the vital role of safety planning within suicide prevention and demonstrates how a collaborative approach can empower individuals to identify sources of help, build resilience, and access support during times of crisis. I hope this resource will increase awareness, understanding, and confidence in the use of safety planning across our services and community organisations.”
Jennifer Sharkey, Suicide Liaison Officer commented:
“We are delighted to share our new Safety Planning Video, developed to support individuals presenting with a deterioration in their mental state or having suicidal thoughts. The video has been co-produced with service users and provides practical guidance on creating a personalised safety plan, recognising warning signs, identifying coping strategies, and accessing appropriate services. It is a valuable educational resource for anyone seeking to support a loved one. The video includes important emergency contact numbers with clear advice on the steps to take. We hope this video helps individuals, families, and carers feel better prepared, informed, and supported should a crisis arise.”
In addition, the Towards Zero Suicide Collaborative encourage staff to complete a free 20-minute online suicide prevention awareness programme. The training helps participants recognise warning signs, understand factors that may contribute to suicidal thoughts, have supportive conversations, offer emotional support, and signpost individuals to appropriate services and helplines.
This training is also available for members of the public to access on the following link: https://www.mindingyourhead.info/training/toward-zero-suicide