Q. Why have you developed suicide prevention training specifically for neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and migrant communities?

Chrissy Dillon: According to recent studies, 74% of 18-25 year olds within the LGBTQ+ community have experienced suicidal thoughts (Source: Just Like Us Positive-Futures-report-by-Just-Like-Us-compressed-for-mobile.pdf (justlikeus.org) . Neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with conditions such as autism and ADHD, face similarly high statistics; autistic adults with no learning disability are 9x more likely to die by suicide than the general population (Source: Wiley https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/aur.2076), while migrants often struggle with isolation, discrimination, and cultural barriers that can exacerbate mental health challenges.

Q. What makes this training different from other suicide prevention programs?

Chrissy: The training workshops are tailored to the needs of identified high-risk communities —neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ people, and migrants. Coproduction is central to our approach, working closely with local expert organisations from these communities, ensuring the content is truly relevant and reflective of lived experiences. This makes the training deeply empathetic and practical, addressing the real challenges these groups face.

Our focus is on training both individuals and organisations. Empowering people within their own communities broadens the reach of suicide prevention efforts by teaching individuals and professionals alike, how to recognise signs of distress and offer meaningful support. It’s not about crisis intervention; it’s about encouraging a culture of support and understanding, where everyone can play a role in saving lives.

Q. How does your training address the specific mental health needs of neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ communities, and migrants?

Chrissy: The co-produced training includes the experiences of experts by experience. For the neurodivergent community we discuss positive mental health barriers, including masking. We provide frameworks for engaging in conversations, resources specifically designed for neurodivergent people, and directly targeted signposting to support.

For migrated communities, the training highlights some of the potential challenges they might face in the UK, such as discrimination, trauma and language barriers. We have also highlighted that resources like safety plans may be more beneficial when written in a first language.

The LGBTQ+ community’s needs may include bullying and discrimination, which are shown to increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. Therefore, the training underscores the importance of support in reducing suicidal thoughts.

Q. Why is it important for people outside these communities, such as healthcare professionals and organisations, to take this training?

Chrissy: It’s vital for professionals and organisations to take this training because they are often on the front lines of support for people in crisis, including—neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ+ people, and people that have migrated—who face unique challenges. Understanding the specific risk factors, communication needs, and cultural sensitivities of these groups can help professionals provide more compassionate, effective support.

Q: How can individuals or organisations access this training, and what should they expect to gain from it?

Chrissy: You can book a session through Eventbrite or via our website. We offer both online and in-person workshops, so whether you prefer to attend virtually or face-to-face, there’s an option for you. Each session lasts three hours and provides practical advice to support high-risk communities. The training will enable you to identify someone at risk of suicide, understand communities at increased risk of suicide, to talk openly about suicide, help those who are feeling suicidal to stay safe, and to look after your own wellbeing.

Q. How can people support your efforts to continue offering this vital training?

Chrissy: One of the most effective ways to support our efforts is by helping us spread the word. Share our training dates, webpages, and resources with your networks through social media, email, or word of mouth.

More information is available at stopsuicidepledge.org

You can download our recently updated Suicide Prevention guide here.