Dr Jon Lamonte, Chief Executive, Transport for Greater Manchester, 2 Piccadilly Place, Manchester M1 3BG

Dear Dr Lamonte,

Suicide Prevention – Staff Training and Messaging

Following World Suicide Prevention Day (10th September), I am writing to you with a special request.

You may be aware that tragically suicide is the most common cause of death amongst young males.  Regrettably some individuals chose to commit suicide in front of a moving public transport vehicle.  Not only does this result in loss of life, it can cause injury or death, and well as trauma, to the driver and passengers; disrupt services; and put a vehicle out of commission.

Samaritans have been working extensively with Network Rail, Translink and the wider rail industry to support those contemplating suicide and using the network.  As part of the “We Listen” campaign, at rail stations around the country, posters have gone up advertising the availability of the Samaritans free helpline number 116 123 so that the general public can call the helpline as a “positive, empowering first step in seeking help and taking control of their lives”.  Station and other rail staff have also accessed training to support those they see in need of help.

My request is that we look to engage Metrolink and bus operators with this scheme by asking Samaritans to train the staff of operators and that we display posters in our bus stations and tram stops, and on our buses and trams.

I shall look forward to your response.