Community-driven approaches to suicide prevention

A free event offering valuable insights into how we can prevent suicide and improve outcomes for people in our communities.
About this Event

We all have a role to play in preventing suicide. If you’d like to find out more about how you can help people who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviours, or people who have been bereaved by suicide, then join us for an empowering evening of conversation.

You don’t need to work in mental health or have previous involvement in suicide prevention projects to take part.

Through thought-provoking discussion and a live Q&A, you’ll hear fresh perspectives, explore practical learning and have the opportunity to engage with leading expertise in suicide prevention.

Join us on Wednesday 21 October 2026 at the University of Glasgow, for our public lecture with Professor Ella Arensman, National Suicide Research Foundation Ireland and Past President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

For over 15 years, SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) and the Suicidal Behaviour Research Lab at the University of Glasgow have worked in partnership to advance research, strengthen practice and share learning in support of Scotland’s suicide prevention agenda. This is the first of our newly launched annual public lectures, building on our longstanding partnership by bringing people together to explore ideas, evidence and approaches that can help prevent suicide.

Find out more about our speakers and full programme below.

Please note that a safe space will be available for anyone who may need to take time out during the event.

Agenda

🕑: 06:15 PM
Arrival

Info: Refreshments provided

🕑: 06:45 PM - 06:50 PM
Welcome

Info: With Professor Rory O’Connor, Director of the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory and President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention

🕑: 06:50 PM - 07:35 PM
Lecture

Info: With Ella Arensman, National Suicide Research Foundation Ireland and Past President of the International Association for Suicide Prevention

🕑: 07:35 PM - 08:00 PM
Q&A

Info: With our expert panel – Alex Cumming (Executive Director at SAMH), Professor Rory O’Connor, Ella Arensman and Haylis Smith (National Delivery Lead - Suicide Prevention at COSLA)