Reach Out; START to End Suicide Celebrates a Year of Unprecedented Impact in Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Support
This year, Reach Out; START to End Suicide has touched thousands of lives through a series of powerful, community-led initiatives that champion empathy, connection, and prevention. Funded by the Greater Manchester NHS ICB, our 2024–2025 programme brought together survivors, caregivers, artists, mental health professionals, and everyday heroes to stand united in the fight to end suicide.
From healing through art to bold public remembrance, we’ve seen the real and measurable difference that compassion-driven outreach can make. Our achievements are not just milestones—they’re lifelines.
“Every conversation, every badge, every moment of shared vulnerability represents a step closer to a world where no one feels they have to suffer in silence,” said Dennis Baldwin, Project Manager at Reach Out; START to End Suicide. “This is more than a campaign—it’s a movement.”
Creating Safe Spaces and Connection Through Community Events
In a year marked by resilience, we launched inclusive outreach events such as our Assertive Outreach Pizza Pop Up, creating space for over 30 people—many living with physical disabilities—to share their stories, access resources, and reduce isolation. One attendee expressed: “This event made me feel seen and heard.” Another added: “It’s wonderful to see a space where people can open up without fear of judgment.”
Participants reported a 100% increase in suicide prevention awareness—proof that when people are met with empathy and understanding, they open up, they heal, and they remember they are not alone.
A Procession of Love: World Suicide Prevention Day Vigil
In a deeply moving tribute, Salford honoured the 144 lives lost to suicide in the past five years with a Procession of Remembrance led by samba drummers, poets, musicians, and those bereaved by suicide.
From MP Rebecca Long Bailey’s commitment to increased funding, to Kasia Halani’s heartbreaking story of her son Jakub and the founding of Jak’s World, the event was a powerful reminder that grief, when shared, becomes fuel for change.
“We are not just here to mourn,” said Jenni Smith of Loaves & Fishes, “We are here to demand better.” “Each flag was a life, a name, a memory. But also, a reason to keep going,” added Mayor Paul Dennett. “We can break the stigma and challenge the silence surrounding mental health.”
Healing Through Creativity: Surviving Suicide Art Group
Facilitated by Dennis Baldwin, the Surviving Suicide Peer Support Art Group became a haven for 14 individuals with lived experience of suicidality. Through paint, pencil, and presence, participants experienced a 138% improvement in mental wellbeing. One participant shared: “For two hours, my head has somewhere to go.”
The group called for continued funding, expressing a deep need for more frequent sessions. Their message is clear: these creative spaces are essential—not optional.
Rhythms of Belonging: Cancer Awareness Through Samba
Our ‘Answer Cancer with Samba Beats’ project used rhythm to drive awareness around bowel cancer screening, especially in communities struggling with mental health. With over 60 people engaged, and 18 pledging to get screened, we saw first-hand how creative approaches can overcome fear and spark life-saving action. “Having the resources makes it so easy and does away with the fears,” said a newly trained Cancer Champion.
Everyday Mental Health Heroes: 891 Pledges and Counting
In a testament to community action, nearly 900 Salford residents pledged to be Everyday Mental Health Heroes, proudly wearing their “Here to Hear” badges. This initiative, spanning civic centres, universities, and street-level stalls, turned everyday conversations into acts of bravery and support.
One particularly moving moment came when a participant in Claremont opened up about recent suicidal thoughts, and with support, reframed it as a story of survival and strength. “Being vulnerable isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s about having the courage to face your truth,” shared another attendee.
From Talk About It Mate sessions to the Salford University Month of Hope, the message is resonating: suicide prevention starts with listening.
Looking Ahead
With hope in our hearts and determination in our work, we are already planning new initiatives for 2025–2026. We’ll expand our Assertive Outreach programme, bring more art and healing into communities, train new Mental Health Heroes, and deepen partnerships across Greater Manchester.
“This year has proven that when we lead with empathy, offer space without judgment, and empower people to share their stories, we save lives,” said Dennis Baldwin. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved—but we’re just getting started.”
To keep up to date and join ‘Reach Out; Start to End Suicide’ visit: www.startinspiringminds.org.uk/reachout and follow us on social media @ReachOutSTES
For support for yourself or someone you know please visit ‘Shining A Light On Suicide’ http://www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk/
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or if you are grieving the loss of someone to suicide, please know that you are not alone. Help is available, and there are people who care and want to support you.
For immediate support, you can contact:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123, free and confidential, 24/7. You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
- Shout – Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential crisis support via text, 24/7.
- Papyrus HOPELINEUK – For anyone under 35 struggling with thoughts of suicide, or concerned about someone else: Call 0800 068 41 41,pat@papyrus-uk.org.
- Cruse Bereavement Support – Call 0808 808 1677 or visit cruse.org.uk for help with grief and loss.
- Greater Manchester Bereavement Service – A dedicated support hub for anyone in Greater Manchester affected by suicide: visit greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk.
You can also reach out to your GP or local mental health services for support and signposting.
You matter. There is hope, and there is help. Please, reach out.