Education training experts support suicide prevention in Schools on Samaritans' 24/7 day

IN recognition of Samaritans' 24/7 awareness day, that took place on:- 24 July 2025, leading e-learning company High Speed Training is highlighting the importance of equipping children and young people with the knowledge to support others in crisis.

The call comes as the Government announces that suicide prevention will be a compulsory part of the School curriculum, a landmark victory for the:- "3 Dads Walking" campaign. The 3 fathers, who each tragically lost a daughter to suicide, have campaigned to ensure all young people learn about mental health and suicide prevention in a safe and supportive School environment. Their efforts have resulted in a historic change to the Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) curriculum in England.

Dr. Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at High Speed Training, said:- "On Samaritans' 24/7 Day, we are reminded of the power of conversation and the importance of being there for 1 another. This new curriculum will empower young people to have open and honest conversations about mental health, and it is vital to support Schools, teachers, and parents in this crucial endeavour."

Knowing how to talk to someone who is suicidal can be daunting, but it is a skill that can be learned. Key advice includes:- knowing your resources, such as Samaritans, creating a safe and private space to talk, not being afraid to ask and express concern directly, and actively listening without judgment.

Dr. Anderson continues:- "The reasons a young person may experience suicidal thoughts are incredibly complex. In School, they face immense pressure to fit in, excel academically, and make life defining decisions, often alongside pressures at home or with friends. It's easy to see how they can feel overwhelmed. That is why access to support and resources is paramount. Educating students on risk factors, showing them where to turn for help, and teaching them how to notice and respond if a peer is struggling are crucial, life saving skills. By raising awareness and encouraging open, honest discussion, we can break down the stigma, reduce risk, and ultimately, save lives."

The new curriculum guidance will be available for Schools to implement from September this year, and will be mandatory from September 2026. This move is a significant step towards a future where young people feel able to talk about their mental health and seek help when they need it.

Samaritans' 24/7 Day highlights the charity's round the clock support for anyone who may be struggling. Their helpline is always open, providing a confidential and non-judgmental listening ear.

For more tips and in depth guidance, visit High Speed Training Hub, or our article:- How to Talk to Someone Who is Suicidal:- Raising Awareness Through Myths and Facts.

Mayor launches new international board to harness Liverpool City Region's global assets for investment and influence

MAYOR Steve Rotheram has announced bold new plans to create a:- 'Soft Power' Board to harness Liverpool's world famous brand. In an increasingly inward looking world, the board will promote the City Region's:- 'superpower' values of innovation, creativity, resilience, tolerance and warmth to drive prosperity, while acting as an international force for good.

It will seek to boost foreign direct investment and strengthen trade relationships by leveraging the Region's internationally significant assets.

These include world leading:- Universities and research institutes, globally recognised businesses, innovation hubs, such as:- Sci-Tech Daresbury, thriving visitor economy assets, major events expertise, and cultural institutions; including:- football clubs, music and heritage.

The initiative reflects the Mayor's commitment to using the Region's unique identity, its cultural strengths and global profile to deliver economic growth.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said:- "Our Region has always punched above its weight on the world stage. Whether it's our music or sport - our culture, creativity, and character are known and loved across the globe. I also want the same global recognition for innovation, advanced computing, AI, green tech and life sciences. This new Soft Power Board will help us turn that global recognition into real opportunities; for investment, for jobs, and for our communities."

The Soft Power Board will bring together leading voices from:- across culture, sport, media, education, and the creative industries to shape a Regional soft power strategy.

It will work alongside existing bodies such as:- Invest Liverpool City Region, Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership and the Business and Enterprise Board to amplify the Region's international profile and maximise the Region's competitive advantage.

The move aligns with national policy, following the UK Government's launch of a UK Soft Power Council earlier this year, which brings together leaders from:- business, sport, academia, and culture to shape the UK's global engagement strategy.

The Liverpool City Region has begun discussions to ensure alignment and engagement with the national Council, and the Regional board will mirror similar themes; including:- sport, education, creative industries and science.

Mayor Rotheram added:- "At a time when much of the world feels inward-looking, the Liverpool City Region has its arms wide open. We're forging strong partnerships with Cities and Regions across the USA, Germany, China, South Korea, Ireland and Indonesia; and this board will help us go even further."

Alongside its world-famous international identity, the Liverpool City Region is home to world-class science and innovation institutions, a growing tech and digital economy, and major investment ready regeneration schemes; offering international partners both values, and value.

It is also home to the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine whose research helps saves millions of lives across the world.

The new board will help to:-

• Boost international perceptions of the Region.
  

• Leverage global cultural and sporting events.
  

• Build partnerships that benefit both the Region and the UK's wider soft power agenda.

Membership of the board is currently under discussion, with a focus on ensuring representation from across the Region's diverse and dynamic sectors.

The initiative forms part of the Combined Authority's wider Plan for Prosperity, which sets out a blueprint for inclusive economic growth, and builds on the powers secured through the Region's devolution deal.

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