Birmingham Suicide Prevention Week 2025: It Takes a City
From 8 to 14 September 2025, Birmingham will launch its first-ever Suicide Prevention Week, framed with the theme “It takes a city: Honouring loss with open conversations about suicide.” This landmark initiative marks a significant step in city-wide efforts to break the silence and support mental health across communities and talk about a issue which can be seen as ‘the elephant in the room’.
What to Expect This Week
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An exhibition in the Birmingham Central Library Wellbeing Zone, accessible to all, will offer reflection, inspiration, and information to foster awareness and hope.
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The week wraps up with Cycle for Suicide Prevention on 14 September (10:00–13:00), starting at the Ikon Gallery in Brindley Place. This community ride stops at key city points and encourages open, compassionate conversations about suicide. Representatives from Birmingham Public Health, Forward for Life, and Common Unity will be present to offer guidance and resources along the route.
Why It Matters
Suicide remains a deeply tragic and complex issue, often exacerbated by stigma and isolation. By dedicating a full week to it, Birmingham is sending a powerful message: no one has to face their struggles alone. The events aim to spark vital conversations, shine a spotlight on help available, and encourage citywide participation in suicide prevention.
Cycling together symbolises more than just movement—it represents connection, support, and the commitment to carry each other through difficult times.
How You Can Get Involved
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Attend the exhibition at the Wellbeing Zone to learn more and express solidarity.
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Join the Cycle for Suicide Prevention—whether as a participant or volunteer. It’s a powerful, active way to help break down stigma and foster connection.
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Spread the word to friends, family, colleagues, and networks. Every conversation matters.
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Reach out if you’re struggling—or reach out to someone who might be. You are not invisible.
Where to Find Help Right Now
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please know that support is available 24/7 across the UK:
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Samaritans: Call 116 123 anytime for a listening ear.
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Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential 24/7 crisis support via text.
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CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Call 0800 58 58 58 daily from 17:00 to midnight; webchat also available during these hours.
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HopeLineUK (PAPYRUS): Call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860039967 for young people at risk.
Birmingham Suicide Prevention Week 2025 isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. By joining together, learning, listening, and cycling forward, we can each play a part in creating a more compassionate, connected, and hopeful city.
For more information and videos on suicide prevention, go to: www.breathe-edu.co.uk/resource/suicide-prevention-breathe-education/
Also check out: www.papyrus-uk.org/world-suicide-prevention-day/
For resources and advice visit: www.birmingham.gov.uk/info/50281/suicide_prevention_support
Click on the images below for the schedule of the week and SPW campaign material
