Warning: This story contains references to suicide that some readers may find distressing.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is joining local partners to encourage open and compassionate conversations about suicide as communities mark Suicide Prevention Week from 7 to 13 September 2026.
The week includes World Suicide Prevention Day on Thursday 10 September and supports the international theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, with the call to action “Start the Conversation.” The campaign aims to move away from silence and stigma towards greater openness, understanding and support.
A range of events and activities will take place across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, including remembrance events, information stalls, staff support, training, community activities and awareness campaigns.
Among the events is the annual Candlelit Celebration of Life, taking place in the Tranquillity Garden at Gartnavel Royal Hospital on Thursday 10 September.
The event, which is open to everyone, provides a reflective space for people affected by suicide to remember loved ones, light a candle and leave a message at the garden’s rowan tree.
NHSGGC Deputy Medical Director for Mental Health Services, Una Graham, said: “Suicide prevention is a year-round commitment across Greater Glasgow and Clyde, but this week provides an important opportunity to remind people that compassionate and open conversations can make a real difference.
“We are grateful to the many partners and local organisations delivering activities across our communities. Together, these events can help challenge stigma, increase awareness of the support available and give people greater confidence to reach out to someone they may be concerned about.
“We would encourage everyone to take part where they can, whether by attending an event, learning more about suicide prevention or simply taking the time to start a conversation and listen without judgement.”
Events and activities
Candlelit Celebration of Life
Thursday 10 September, 1.30pm to 3pm
Tranquillity Garden, Campbell House, Gartnavel Royal Hospital
This annual event offers a tranquil space to remember, reflect and celebrate the lives of those who continue to inspire us. Everyone is welcome.
To register an intention to attend, contact Ann Jones on 0141 550 8417 or email ann@mhngg.org.uk.
East Renfrewshire events
The East Renfrewshire Suicide Prevention Network and local partners have organised activities throughout the week:
- Monday 7 September, 10am to 11am: Information stall at Barrhead Health Centre
- Tuesday 8 September, 10am to 12.30pm: Information stall at Morrisons, Giffnock
- Wednesday 9 September, 10am to 12.30pm: Information stall at Eastwood Health and Care Centre
- Thursday 10 September, 10am to 12.30pm: Information stall at Waitrose, Newton Mearns
- Friday 11 September, 10am to 11am: Information stall at Barrhead Foundry
- Friday 11 September, 10am to 5pm: Art and Mental Health event at Nook, SAMH Glasgow, offering a safe space for conversations about mental health, self-help and using creative practice to explore difficult experiences.
Pop-up banners and suicide prevention resources will also be displayed across all 10 East Renfrewshire libraries from 7 to 13 September. Additional closed activities include suicideTALK training, wellbeing activity and gambling-harms training.
East Dunbartonshire
An information stall will be held at Kirkintilloch Health and Care Centre on Thursday 10 September, providing an opportunity for visitors to find out more about suicide prevention and available support.
Inverclyde
The shipbuilders’ sculpture in Port Glasgow will be illuminated on Thursday 10 September as part of a coordinated awareness campaign with Public Health Scotland.
A listening-ear drop-in event will also be available for staff, with onward signposting to support where appropriate. Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, known as ASIST, will take place on 10 and 11 September.
Samaritans on Scotland’s railways
Samaritans volunteers will travel on train services between Glasgow and Edinburgh, on routes from both Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central. Volunteers will be available to provide emotional support and raise awareness of the help offered by Samaritans.
Online awareness campaign
MindMosaic Counselling and Therapy will run a social media campaign throughout the week, featuring reflections on trauma, life pressures, reaching out and the importance of compassionate support.
A special blog will also be published on World Suicide Prevention Day, encouraging people to start conversations, check in with others and remember that support is available.
Suicide prevention resources
NHSGGC has a range of resources to help staff and partners increase their knowledge and confidence:
- Suicide Prevention Resources and Supports: brings together learning, guidance, websites, helplines and information about keeping people safe.
- Suicide Postvention Resources and Supports: provides information for staff supporting people who have lost someone to suicide.
- Suicide ALERT Resources: introduces the ALERT model and offers practical guidance for talking with someone who may be at risk, alongside prompt sheets and a directory of mental health apps, helplines and websites.
Support is available
If you are concerned about someone’s mental health and wellbeing, encourage the person to contact a GP or call NHS 24 on 111.
Further support is available from:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123, free, 24 hours a day
- Breathing Space: Call 0800 83 85 87
- Childline: Call 0800 1111
- Emergency services: Call 999 if someone is in immediate danger
Information and resources for World Suicide Prevention Day 2026 are also available from Suicide Prevention Scotland.