10 September 2026 is World Suicide Prevention Day

Thursday 10th September 2026 is World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide is a major public health challenge, claiming the lives of more than 720 000 people every year. Each life lost has profound social, emotional, and economic consequences, deeply affecting families, friends, workplaces, and entire communities around the world.

World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) was established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in partnership with the World Health Organization. Each year, on 10 September, WSPD focuses global attention on suicide prevention, uniting communities, organizations, and governments with the shared belief that suicides are preventable.

2026 marks the third and final year of the triennial theme for World Suicide Prevention Day (2024–2026), Changing the Narrative on Suicide, with the call to action: Start the Conversation. This theme calls on us all to challenge harmful myths, reduce stigma, and foster open, compassionate conversations about suicide. It is about shifting from silence and misunderstanding to openness, empathy, and support, creating environments where people feel able to speak up and seek help.

Both the Secretary and Chairperson of Safe Places Shropshire are trained holders of the Orange Button Community Scheme. We have been invited to join a Free one hour webinar from 10am to 11am on Thursday 10th September to mark the day. We have also been asked to share this information as the webinar is open to everyone. Whether you’re a community member, volunteer, someone with lived experience, or a professional, we all have a role to play in preventing suicide and supporting those around us.

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The Orange Badge Community and Shropshire Council are hosting this webinar to explore the realities of suicide, its impact on individuals, families and communities, and what we can all do to help prevent it.

The session will include:

Current insights into suicide and self-harm.
Understanding who may be at increased risk.
Challenging stigma and encouraging supportive conversations.
Practical actions we can all take to help.
Information about the Orange Button Community Scheme and free suicide prevention training available across Shropshire.

Click on the link below to register: