Prince of Wales Unveils New Suicide Prevention Toolkit for Sports Sector

Last week, the Prince of Wales unveiled plans for a new suicide prevention toolkit designed to help organisations recognise warning signs and support those who may be at risk.

Developed by The Royal Foundation in partnership with the British Standards Institution and mental health charity Chasing the Stigma, the toolkit aims to embed suicide prevention into everyday practice across the sporting sector.

The guidance covers how to create safe and supportive environments where people feel able to speak up and support others in distress, including advice on appropriate language and conversation starters. It also explains how to help people recognise warning signs and respond to someone in crisis and put clear procedures in place for managing crisis situations and supporting people after a suicide.

The toolkit is designed for use across all levels of sport - from local clubs and academies to fully professional outfits, of different sizes, structures and levels. It is relevant to everyone involved in sport, including players, coaches, staff, volunteers, families and spectators.

To mark the launch, The Royal Foundation has also produced a short film encouraging people to to start a conversation about suicide. It features England captain Harry Kane, Formula 1 driver George Russell, and Women's Rugby World Cup winner Rocky Clark.

Visit Chasing the Stigma's Hub of Hope to learn more and download the toolkit here.