Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Company Launches Guide of Hope for World Suicide Prevention Day
A Leeds-based mental health and suicide prevention Community Interest Company releases a free guide in support of World Suicide Prevention Day.
The guide, produced by HelloHope UK CIC, aims to dispel myths surrounding suicide and offers actionable steps to support individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Launched earlier this year by Leeds entrepreneur Ellie MacDonald, HelloHope provides mental health and suicide prevention training for businesses, communities, and individuals. The organisation also campaigns for greater awareness and is committed to reducing stigma, helping people speak freely and access the support they need.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50 and anyone under 35 in the UK. Recent ONS statistics show that 6,069 deaths by suicide occurred in 2023, the highest since 1999.
The Community Interest Company was established following Ellie’s personal experience of losing her father to suicide when she was just four years old in 1989.
Ellie MacDonald, founder, CEO, and lead trainer of HelloHope, comments:
“It took over 30 years for me to understand the impact of my dad’s suicide. No one talked about it, and sadly, the stigma still exists today. Suicide remains a leading cause of death, yet prevention efforts are minimal. I spent two years sourcing the best training and set up HelloHope to provide essential, lifesaving training to empower ordinary people and help make a positive difference.”
The theme for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day is ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide,’ and HelloHope is encouraging everyone to start conversations about the issue.
Ellie adds:
“HelloHope aligns perfectly with this year’s theme. I believe in focusing on hope and changing the narrative and stigma around suicide. Our guide of hope offers practical steps to support loved ones, colleagues, or even strangers who may be struggling, from simply checking in on someone to providing a list of resources to help them.”
The guide includes contact information for organisations that can assist in supporting someone with suicidal thoughts, along with helpful advice for workplaces, communities, and self-care tips.