From Evidence to Impact: How suicide prevention training Is creating safer school communities

Talking about suicide can feel uncomfortable for many people, it’s often the fear of saying the wrong thing. In school environments, where changes in a young person’s wellbeing are often first noticed, this is precisely the moment when confident, compassionate action matters most.

For communities to be safer, people need to feel informed, supported and confident to act. The Research undertaken and published in the Pastoral Care in Education publication gives clear evidence that when school staff are given the right training (even in brief, structured formats) their confidence, language and readiness to respond improves significantly.

Evidence that training makes a real difference

A few key stats from the research, that help us digest the relevance:

72% of staff reported increased confidence in discussing suicide risk with a young person following training

65% felt more confident in knowing what steps to take next when concerned about a pupil’s emotional wellbeing

Over 80% felt more comfortable using direct, sensitive language, which research consistently shows reduces stigma and supports safer communication

Grounded in local partnerships

We worked in close collaboration with local partners, including the University of Northampton, to ensure training reflects real local services, referral pathways and safeguarding systems. To ensure the accuracy and relevance of this research.

By aligning suicide prevention training with NHS mental health support and established safeguarding processes, schools gain not only awareness but practical clarity about what to do next. This reduces uncertainty and ensures responses are confident, appropriate and supported.

What the research shows

The research explored how brief, structured suicide prevention training influenced staff perceptions and readiness. Key findings included:

• Increased confidence to engage in conversations, with many participants saying they felt ready to “start conversations rather than avoid them”
• A reduction in fear and avoidance around the topic, allowing staff to discuss suicide openly and appropriately
• Greater clarity around individual roles within safeguarding systems, helping staff feel supported rather than isolated

• These shifts in confidence, language, and perceived responsibility are critical in creating school environments where emotional wellbeing is taken seriously and young people feel safe to speak up.

Why this matters for our community

Suicide prevention is not only about responding to crisis moments. It is about everyday understanding, connection and early intervention. When school staff feel prepared and confident, young people are more likely to feel heard. When communities understand mental health better, stigma reduces and support becomes more accessible.

The strength of this work was really in the combination of lived experience, professional training, academic insight and NHS partnership all rooted firmly in local communities.

“Talking about suicide does not increase risk…silence does.
What this research shows so clearly is that when school staff are given the right language, confidence and support, they are far better equipped to have the conversations that can genuinely save lives.

At Kelly’s Heroes, we are committed to delivering training that is evidence-based, locally connected and practical so schools never feel they are facing these challenges alone.”

Sherry Adams, CEO, Kelly’s Heroes

Now for the impact this will bring

We continue working alongside schools, families and local partners to build safer, more informed communities. By learning from evidence and responding to local need, we aim to create environments where no one feels they have to face difficult moments alone.

We all have a role to play through listening, understanding and then taking action. By working together we can improve understanding and start to open up more relevant conversations when they are needed.

Find out about our training courses or contact us for more information.

Read the full published article, click below.