Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on Wednesday 10 September, members of our University community attended a special Service of Reflection at Durham Cathedral on Sunday 7 September.
Reflection and remembrance
Our Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O'Brien, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion), Dr Shaid Mahmood, represented the University at this important service. They joined HM Deputy Lieutenant of County Durham, Mrs Kate Simpson MBE DL, and the Chair of Durham County Council, Councillor Robbie Rodiss. Agencies who support people affected by suicide were in attendance at the service - Samaritans, Papyrus, If U Care Share, Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide, The Compassionate Friends and The Coroners' Courts Support Service, as well as colleagues from our Student Experience Directorate and Colleges.
The service was organised by the Coroners' Service for County Durham and Darlington and Durham County Council, with our support and that of other charities. Led by Reverend Canon Michael Hempel, it offered a time for quiet reflection, remembrance, and community support.
Professor O'Brien read the Gospel reading and Rev'd Canon Gavin Wort, the University's Lead Chaplain, offered uplifting words of comfort.
Training and support
World Suicide Prevention Day offers an important reminder to find out about support available.
All of our permanent staff are required to complete a suicide awareness e-learning module, to help increase understanding and awareness.
We have a range of support services available for our students and staff who have been affected by suicide or are experiencing mental health difficulties themselves, as well as guidance on what to do in an emergency.
- Student Support and Wellbeing Services, including Counselling and Mental Health for students.
- Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or who needs support, can contact the Samaritans helpline on 116 123. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111 and select option 2 for 24/7 help. Anyone who is deaf or has hearing loss can use NHS 111 - SignVideo or the 18001 111 Relay UK app.
