Thrive LDN announces further free suicide awareness training sessions for 2026

Following the success of the training held for Great Mental Health Day in January, Thrive LDN is facilitating a series of further online suicide awareness sessions throughout the year.

Delivered by the Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA), these free webinars aim to help more people across London gain the skills to support those around them.

The sessions continue to build on Great Mental Health Day’s theme of ‘everyday spaces’. This focus recognises that the most meaningful support often begins in the familiar settings where we live, work, and socialise. By learning how to identify when someone is struggling, participants can help ensure these community spaces remain supportive environments for everyone.

About the training sessions

This programme is supported and funded by the Mayor of London. Each session provides a structured introduction to suicide prevention, giving attendees the tools to act with care and confidence.

Positive impact and participant feedback

Feedback from the initial January session highlights the value Londoners found in the training. Of the 450 people who attended, 400 shared their views, and more than 98 per cent confirmed they would recommend the training to a friend or colleague. The training received an average quality rating of 4.7 out of 5, with 75 per cent of attendees awarding it the highest possible score.

Participants specifically noted that the guidance on how to navigate difficult conversations was the most helpful element. Many felt more confident after learning which phrases to use and which to avoid, particularly the move away from outdated language. Others highlighted the clarity of the presentation and the usefulness of the accompanying digital booklet as key strengths of the session.

Thrive LDN communications lead, James Ludley, who supported the January session, said: “The overwhelming response to our Great Mental Health Day session shows a real appetite among Londoners to look out for one another. We are pleased to keep working with the Zero Suicide Alliance to offer these additional dates to meet that demand and to ensure that more people feel equipped to have these vital conversations in their own community spaces.”

What you will learn

The training covers several practical areas, including how to:

• Identify common warning signs and potential risk factors.
• Start a direct conversation with someone you are concerned about.
• Use appropriate language and avoid common pitfalls during difficult discussions.
• Signpost individuals to professional support and encourage them to seek help.
• Take specific, practical steps to assist someone in immediate distress.

Who can attend?

These sessions are available to a wide range of people, including:

• Staff working within local councils, the NHS, and health or care organisations.
• Members of community groups and voluntary sector organisations.
• Any individual who wishes to feel more prepared to support others.
• No previous experience or specialist knowledge is required to take part.

Dates and timings

The following sessions have been scheduled for 2026:

• Thursday, 12 March: 9.30am to 11am
• Tuesday, 12 May: 1pm to 2.30pm (during Mental Health Awareness Week)
• Monday, 15 June: 10am to 11.30am
• Thursday, 9 July: 10am to 11.30am
• Friday, 9 October: 1pm to 2.30pm (ahead of World Mental Health Day)

Each session lasts 90 minutes and is delivered live via Zoom. Please note that these webinars are not recorded, so live attendance is necessary.

How to register

Places can be booked through the Eventbrite registration page or using the embedded form below.

Joining instructions will be sent to registered participants shortly before their chosen session.

Find out more about the Zero Suicide Alliance and their various training courses on their website.