Organised each year to raise awareness and reduce stigma, World Suicide Prevention Day highlights the importance of recognising when people may be struggling and ensuring they know where to turn for help.
Members of Hampshire County Council’s Public Health team joined participants at Winchester parkrun on Saturday 5 September 2026 to help spark conversations about mental wellbeing, wearing yellow and orange, the colours associated with World Suicide Prevention Day. Staff from Solent Mind were also on hand to speak to runners, walkers and volunteers about mental wellbeing and share information about the support available locally.
Councillor Joanne Burton, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, Hampshire County Council, said: “Every suicide is a tragedy that affects families, friends, workplaces and communities. While suicide is complex, we know that creating opportunities for people to connect, talk and access support early can make a real difference. World Suicide Prevention Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma and remind people that support is available. We want people to feel confident seeking help for themselves or supporting someone they are concerned about. The parkrun events provide an opportunity to have those conversations in welcoming community settings, to keep active and highlight the range of support available across Hampshire.”
As part of this year’s campaign, residents are also being encouraged to download the free Stay Alive app, which provides practical support for people experiencing thoughts of suicide, those concerned about someone else, and anyone looking for information about mental health support services. The app has personalised safety planning tools, grounding techniques, breathing exercises and wellbeing resources designed to help people stay safe during difficult times. Further information on self-help and local support services in Hampshire can also be found here.
Upcoming parkrun events
Further parkrun events will take place on Saturday 12 September 2026, highlighting the positive impact that being active and connected to local communities can have on improving your mental wellbeing. Representatives from local Mind organisations will be attending to offer advice, share information about local services, and support ongoing suicide prevention efforts.
People attending the events are encouraged to wear yellow or orange in support of World Suicide Prevention Day and find out more about the support available.
Itchen Valley parkrun – Saturday 12 September 2026, 9-10am (with Solent Mind)
Rushmoor parkrun – Saturday 12 September 2026, 9-10am (with Andover Mind)
Hogmoor Inclosure parkrun – Saturday 12 September 2026, 9-10am (with Havant and East Hants Mind)
Support available
If you or someone you know needs support:
NHS 111 Mental Health Service: Call 111 and select the mental health option
Help in a Crisis: hiowhealthcare.nhs.uk/help-crisis
Samaritans: 116 123, available 24 hours a day
Shout: Text HANTS to 85258 for free, confidential support
Cruse Bereavement Support: self-referrals for free confidential support can be made via crusenow.org.uk
Wider mental wellbeing support in Hampshire can be found by searching “Mental Wellbeing Hampshire” or “5 Ways To Wellbeing Hampshire”