Standing Together: Reflections from World Suicide Prevention Day 2025
On Wednesday 10 September 2025, the people of the city of Salford came together in a deeply moving show of solidarity, remembrance, and hope for World Suicide Prevention Day.
The day was marked by two powerful events: Jak's World's Salford Suicide Prevention Conference at Salford Lads and Girls Club and the Procession and Vigil of Remembrance organised by Start Inspiring Minds (START) .
GMMH's Addiction Services were honoured to be invited to both events by Dennis Baldwin, project manager at START , who spearheads the Shining A Light on Suicide campaign.
Jak’s World’s Suicide Prevention Conference
- Signposting: Mandy Matthews and Ross Darbyshire at Salford’s Inaugural Suicide Prevention Conference.
The morning began at Salford Lads Club, where Jak’s World , a charity founded in memory of Jakub Halani, hosted its first Salford Suicide Prevention Conference. The event brought people together to celebrate life, community, and resilience.
Attendees were welcomed into a space filled with art, music, and healing therapies—from sound baths and reflexology to laughter workshops and youth storytelling.
Kasia Halani, Jakub’s mother and co-founder of Jak’s World, shared her vision: “Our charity was born from the pain of losing our son. But through that pain, we’ve built something that brings people together, offers support, and starts conversations that save lives.”
Achieve and Next Steps colleagues hosted an information and support stall highlighting offers available to people with co-occurring mental health and drug or alcohol issues, and their families and carers .
The conference featured an inspiring line up of speakers , a buffet lunch, and performances from local artists including Kxng Drizz, who reminded attendees, “You are loved. You matter.”
The event also highlighted the importance of practical support for young people, with workshops on emotional health, career guidance, and financial literacy. For more information, visit: About - Jak's World .
The Procession and Vigil of Remembrance
- The procession – (credit Salford Council)
As evening approached, the community gathered at the START Wellbeing Centre for the Procession and Vigil of Remembrance. At 7pm, 177 flags , each representing a life lost to suicide in Salford over the past five years , were carried down Broad Street toward s Salford Museum & Art Gallery.
Sarah-Jane Truman, Head of Community Development at GMMH’s Addiction and Homeless Services, said: “It’s always poignant to carry the flag, bittersweet remembering those who have used our services, those who died by suicide, yet hopeful that by being visible somebody, somewhere that may be struggling, might feel able to reach out.”
Lead by Drumming Up Samba Group, and despite the pouring rain, family members, friends and supporters walked side by side, united in compassion and hope.
The vigil featured poetry from Verbose Poetry Collective , songs from Zena Taylor and Sing Their Name Choir , plus heartfelt speeches from community leaders including Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett, and Judd Skelton , Director Adult Commissioning at Salford City Council & NHS Greater Manchester.
Attendees were encouraged to submit names for the Roll of Remembrance, which was read aloud during the vigil by Councillor Mishal Saeed, Executive Support Member for Social Care and Mental Health , Alison Page, Chief Executive of Salford CVS and Ceremonial Mayor Councillor, Heather Fletcher.
Dennis, a suicide attempt survivor, emphasised the importance of connection: “This evening is about more than remembrance; it’s about hope, compassion, and standing together to support those who are struggling.”
A Space to Heal and Connect
- Connecting after the vigil: Rear L-R Dennis Baldwin, Stephen Young - CEO Salford Council, Cllr Gina Taylor, Ceremonial Mayor Heather Fletcher, Cllr Mishal Saeed.Front L-R Mayor Paul Dennet, Sarah-Jane Truman, Zena Taylor
Following the vigil, attendees were invited to gather at the Salford Museum Café, where refreshments were provided by Salford City Council and NHS Greater Manchester .
This informal gathering offered a space for reflection , with people sharing stories, offer ing comfort, and build ing community.
For more information and support visit www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk and www.startinspiringminds.org.uk/reachout .
Suicide: Let’s “Change The Narrative”
It can be hard to know how to support someone who you think might be feeling suicidal. Zero Suicide Alliance have created free online training that will give you the skills you need to help someone who is struggling with suicidal thoughts. Please be aware that this training may be challenging for some people. Make sure you have someone you can talk to if you need to.
You can access the training here: Free online suicide awareness training from the Zero Suicide Alliance
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help and support is available right now. You do not have to struggle with difficult feelings alone . For more information about the immediate support available, and resources, visit: Changing the Narrative on Suicide: World Suicide Prevention Day and Greater Manchester’s Month of Hope 2025.
In emergency situations where there’s an immediate risk to life, or you need urgent physical care, you should contact 999 or go to A&E.
