Solas FRC Staff and Board Take Part in Suicide Prevention Training

Staff members and members of the Board of Management of Solas Family Resource Centre took part in Suicide Prevention Code of Practice training last week, delivered by Mary Mulcahy of the Family Resource Centre National Forum and Mary O’Sullivan, HSE Suicide Prevention Officer.

The training forms part of an important initiative to strengthen the role of Family Resource Centres in supporting individuals and families experiencing mental health difficulties and helping to prevent suicide within our communities.

The project seeks to reduce suicide by harnessing the strengths, resilience and connections within local communities. Its aims include raising awareness of mental health issues, providing education, challenging stigma and breaking down the barriers that can prevent people from seeking help.

The Suicide Prevention Code of Practice training equips FRC staff with valuable knowledge and skills in early intervention, risk assessment and appropriate support strategies. It helps staff to recognise when someone may be experiencing difficulties, respond sensitively and compassionately, and support individuals in accessing the help they need.

An important part of this work is creating an environment where people feel safe, listened to, valued and supported without fear of judgement. By developing a greater understanding of suicide prevention and mental health, we can help foster a culture of openness, empathy and support throughout our communities.

At Solas FRC, we recognise that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. While we are not a crisis response service, we are committed to listening, supporting people, helping them access appropriate services and working alongside our community to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

We would like to sincerely thank Mary Mulcahy and Mary O’Sullivan for delivering this important training and for sharing their knowledge and expertise with our staff and Board of Management.

Together, by building awareness, understanding and stronger community connections, we can help create a community where nobody feels they have to face difficult times alone.