A training workshop aimed at helping emergency services personnel in Limerick to support people in crisis, including people feeling suicidal, will be hosted at Limerick Fire Station this Tuesday, September 2nd.
Members of Limerick Fire and Rescue Service, An Garda Síochána, the National Ambulance Service and the Munster Regional Communications Centre (MRCC) will attend the half-day suicide prevention talk, hosted by the HSE.
safeTALK (suicide alertness for everyone) is also being held as part of an awareness campaign ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10th, which promotes worldwide commitment and action to preventing suicide.
Paul Knapp of Limerick Fire and Rescue Service commented: “SafeTALK is a 4-hour training session which provides participants with the tools and a common language to reach out to a person who is vulnerable, disconnected and potentially at risk of suicide.”
“Emergency service workers play a critically important role in suicide prevention in communities throughout Ireland. SafeTalk is one of a number of suicide prevention training programmes available through the HSE Suicide Prevention Resource Office and is focused on helping members of the emergency services deal with suicidal people,” added Mr. Knapp.
safeTALK is funded nationally by the HSE Suicide Prevention Resource Office, which was formed directly after the launch of Ireland’s first suicide prevention strategy, Reach Out: A National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention 2005-2014.
To enquire about participating in a local safeTALK workshop contact the Suicide Resource Office, HSE Mid-West on 061-461454, Mon-Thurs 10am-3pm. If you are vulnerable or concerned for someone else, please contact your G.P., Shannondoc, Pieta House 061-484444, Console 1800-247247, Samaritans Free-call 116 123, Childline 1800-666666 or Emergency Services 999/112 for advice and support.
