Date: Thursday 10 September 2026
Time: 6:00pm–7:30pm
Location: Outside Salford Museum and Art Gallery, Salford
START will mark World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10 September 2026 with a special evening vigil outside Salford Museum and Art Gallery, bringing people together for an evening of reflection, remembrance and celebration of lives lost to suicide.
This annual event, taking place from 6:00pm to 7:30pm, will provide a space for people across Salford to come together, remember loved ones, acknowledge the impact of suicide on individuals, families and communities, and reflect on the importance of hope, compassion and connection.
The vigil will feature contributions from people in key positions across Salford's Council, NHS and voluntary and community sector, alongside music and poetry.
Confirmed speakers and contributors include:
- Paul Dennett, Salford Mayor
- Judd Skelton, Director of Adult Commissioning (Salford), Salford City Council / NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care
- Nathan Randles, Associate Non-Executive Director, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
- Jen Green, Deputy Chief Executive and Executive Director for Corporate Services, Salford City Council
- Kasia Halini, Jak's World charity
- Robin Garrido, Ceremonial Lord Mayor of Salford
- Alison Page, Salford CVS
Music and poetry will form an important part of the evening, offering opportunities for reflection and expression.
- Dominic Berry (Poet)
- John O'Neil (Poet)
- Salford in harmony (Choir)
- Sing Out Choir (Choir)
- Bethany Morgan (Musician and performer)
The event will culminate in a roll call of the names of people lost to suicide, followed by a candlelit vigil and minute's silence. This moment will provide an opportunity for the community to come together in remembrance and to honour the lives of those who are no longer with us.
“This vigil is about coming together as a community to remember those we have lost, support those who are struggling and remind people that they are not alone. The theme for this year's event is "Changing the narrative on suicide". By talking openly about suicide and mental health, we can challenge stigma, break down barriers and create a community where people feel able to ask for help and know that they will be heard.” Adrian Perrett, event organiser
Following the vigil, refreshments will be available at the Museum Café, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect with others and continue conversations in a supportive setting.
We will have representatives from Greater Manchester Bereavement Services and the Salford Listening Lounge on site to offer support and advice on the night.
START hopes the event will help bring the community together around an important message: that every life matters, that no one should feel alone, and that talking, listening and connecting can make a difference.
START is inviting people to put forward names of those lost to suicide who they wish to be included in the roll call which is read out at the event. To have a name included, please email adrian@startinspiringminds.org.uk
This is run as part of START’s Reach Out: Start to End Suicide Programme
For further information about the event, please contact:
adrian@startinspiringminds.org.uk
0161 351 6000 Ext 6048 or
07307 1986 80
Follow START’s social media: https://linktr.ee/STARTinSalford
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