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  • S2 E03 - Suicide Prevention in Schools: What New Guidance Means

    S2 E03 - Suicide Prevention in Schools: What New Guidance Means
    Feb 23 2026
    In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, Professor Saini discusses the critical topic of suicide prevention in schools with experts Kate Henderson, Emma Ashworth and Joanna Johnson. They explore the MAPSS trial, the Breaking the Silence workshops, and the importance of equipping teachers and young people with the skills to address mental health issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for evidence-based practices, the role of families, and the implementation of new government guidance in the PSHE curriculum. The experts share insights on young people's perspectives, the importance of confidentiality, and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for open discussions about mental health.Takeaways— The MAPSS trial has involved nearly a thousand young people.— Breaking the Silence workshops have significantly increased confidence in spotting signs of distress.— Young people are eager to learn skills for future use in mental health situations.— Confidentiality concerns are common among young people seeking help.— Parental involvement is crucial in supporting young people's mental health.— Teachers need training to feel confident discussing mental health topics.— Evidence-based practices are essential for effective suicide prevention.— Creating a compassionate space encourages young people to open up.— Age-appropriate discussions about mental health should start early.— The new government guidance emphasizes the importance of suicide prevention in schools.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Suicide Prevention in Schools00:57 Overview of the MAPSS Trial02:11 Breaking the Silence Workshops03:05 Supporting Teachers in Crisis Situations05:47 Building Relationships with Young People09:09 Young People's Perspectives on Mental Health11:02 Navigating Confidentiality and Support13:53 The Role of Families in Suicide Prevention16:48 Implementing New Government Guidance20:02 The Importance of Research in Education21:58 Final Thoughts on Age AppropriatenessMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/ Papyrus: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/Shout: https://giveusashout.org/Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/James’ Place: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/Alfie’s Squad: https://alfiessquad.org/Amparo: https://amparo.org.uk/ WAY Widowed & Young: https://www.widowedandyoung.org.uk/ The Martin Gallier Project: https://www.themartingallierproject.org CreditsSeries conceived & hosted by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaSound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    27 Min.
  • S2 E02 - In Care, At Risk: The Reality of Suicide for Looked-After Children

    S2 E02 - In Care, At Risk: The Reality of Suicide for Looked-After Children
    Feb 16 2026
    In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, Pooja speaks with Fiona Wells from Patch about the often-overlooked topic of looked-after children and their mental health, particularly in relation to suicide prevention. Fiona shares her personal experiences as an adopted child and a social worker, discussing the complexities of identity, trauma, and the challenges faced by adoptive parents. The conversation highlights systemic failures in child welfare and the urgent need for trauma-informed care in social work. They also explore the importance of early conversations about mental health with children and the impact of parental mental health on family dynamics.Takeaways— Fiona Wells shares her journey as an adopted child.— Adoption can lead to complex feelings of identity and belonging.— The importance of trauma-informed care in social work is critical.— Children in the adoption system often face systemic neglect.— Suicidal ideation can be a coping strategy for children.— Early conversations about mental health are essential for children.— Parents of adopted children often face unique challenges and crises.— The need for support systems for adoptive parents is urgent.— Education on trauma should be a fundamental part of social work training.— Children's voices and experiences must be validated in the adoption process.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Topic of Adoption and Mental Health03:05 Fiona's Personal Journey as an Adopted Child05:49 The Challenges of Adoption and Parenting Adopted Children09:10 Systemic Failures in Adoption and Child Welfare11:59 The Need for Trauma-Informed Care in Social Work14:56 Addressing Suicide Prevention in Children and Adolescents17:47 The Importance of Early Conversations About Mental Health21:02 Navigating Parental Mental Health and Crisis23:56 Conclusion and Resources for SupportMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/ Papyrus: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/Shout: https://giveusashout.org/Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/James’ Place: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/Alfie’s Squad: https://alfiessquad.org/Amparo: https://amparo.org.uk/ WAY Widowed & Young: https://www.widowedandyoung.org.uk/ The Martin Gallier Project: https://www.themartingallierproject.org CreditsSeries conceived & hosted by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaSound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    25 Min.
  • S2 E01 - Alfie's Squad: Supporting Children Bereaved by Suicide

    S2 E01 - Alfie's Squad: Supporting Children Bereaved by Suicide
    Feb 9 2026

    In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, Professor Pooja Saini engages with Alfie and James from Alfie Squad, an organization dedicated to supporting children and families affected by suicide. They share their personal experiences with loss, the importance of peer support, and the need for early intervention. The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by those bereaved by suicide, the significance of education in schools regarding mental health, and the positive impact of community support. The episode also discusses the recent Race for a Reason event, showcasing the camaraderie and awareness raised through such initiatives.


    Takeaways

    — Alfie Squad was founded to support children affected by suicide.

    — Personal experiences of loss can foster community and understanding.

    — Peer support is crucial for coping with grief and trauma.

    — Counsellors without lived experience may not fully understand the impact of suicide.

    — Education about suicide should start early in schools.

    — Breaking the stigma around discussing suicide is essential for healing.

    — Family conversations about loss can help in processing grief.

    — Alfie Squad has shown measurable positive impacts on its members.

    — Community events like Race for a Reason raise awareness and funds.

    — The future of services like Alfie Squad is vital for ongoing support.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Alfie Squad and Its Mission

    01:40 Personal Stories: Alfie and James Share Their Journeys

    05:04 The Importance of Peer Support and Shared Experiences

    07:58 Understanding the Unique Challenges of Bereavement by Suicide

    09:53 The Need for Suicide Education in Schools

    11:48 Breaking the Stigma: Family Conversations About Loss

    12:46 Evaluating the Impact of Alfie Squad

    14:07 Experiences from the Race for a Reason Event

    18:22 The Future of Alfie Squad and Its Community Impact


    More Information / Help & Support

    For more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:

    • BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

    • Papyrus: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/

    • Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/

    • Shout: https://giveusashout.org/

    • Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/

    • James’ Place: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/

    • Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/

    • Alfie’s Squad: https://alfiessquad.org/

    • Amparo: https://amparo.org.uk/

    • WAY Widowed & Young: https://www.widowedandyoung.org.uk/

    • The Martin Gallier Project: https://www.themartingallierproject.org

    Credits

    Series conceived & hosted by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores University

    Produced and distributed by Innobella Media

    Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell

    Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    22 Min.
  • Let's Talk Hope: Giving a Voice to the Unheard (Series 2 Trailer)

    Let's Talk Hope: Giving a Voice to the Unheard (Series 2 Trailer)
    Feb 2 2026

    Welcome to Let's Talk Hope: Giving a Voice to the Unheard. Following the success of its first series, Let's Talk Hope returns on 9th February 2026 exploring some of the most pressing and under-discussed issues in suicide prevention. We'll be hearing from young people and hearing about their experiences of using services. This series continues to blend lived experience with professional insight, opening up conversations that are too often avoided.


    I will be taking you inside the experiences of children and families bereaved by suicide, young carers supporting suicidal parents, children growing up in adoptive families and parents of children in crisis. It examines the latest research on Adverse Childhood Experiences, the role of neurodiversity in shaping risk and the practical steps schools can take under the new suicide prevention guidance. Each episode features a mix of voices from children and families directly affected to academics, therapists, teachers and those working on the front line of support services. Together they share honest reflections and practical knowledge with the aim of reducing stigma, improving awareness and ultimately saving lives.

    Credits

    Series conceived & hosted by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores University

    Produced and distributed by Innobella MediaSound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    1 Min.
  • S1 Ep06 - Breaking the Cycle

    S1 Ep06 - Breaking the Cycle
    Mar 24 2025
    In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, host Gemma Cutting and Professor Pooja Saini discuss the generational cycle of suicide with guests Ellie Parmakas and Jasmine Humphries from Epic Hope. They explore the importance of community support, lived experience in suicide prevention, and the role of media in raising awareness. The conversation highlights the need for alternative crisis intervention services and the significance of breaking the cycle of suicide within families. The episode emphasizes hope, support, and the importance of managing suicidal feelings rather than simply recovering from them.TakeawaysThe podcast aims to reduce the stigma around suicide.Ellie founded Epic Hope to address high suicide rates in her community.Jasmine's lived experience drives her passion for postvention work.Crisis harbors provide a non-clinical, supportive environment for those in crisis.Community support is crucial in suicide prevention efforts.Lived experience can enhance the effectiveness of support services.Media attention is increasing awareness about suicide prevention.Breaking the cycle of suicide is essential for future generations.Managing suicidal feelings is a lifelong process.Hope and support can lead to a fulfilling life despite struggles.Sound Bites"We need to help people who are suicidal.""We've saved 17 lives in January.""It's so important to break that cycle.""Life can be absolutely beautiful.""The work you're doing is amazing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Let's Talk Hope01:30 Breaking the Cycle of Suicide02:34 Ellie's Journey and the Birth of Epic Hope06:07 Jasmine's Experience and the Importance of Postvention08:13 Crisis Intervention: A New Approach12:56 The Role of Community Support15:04 Lived Experience in Suicide Prevention18:44 The Nature vs. Nurture Debate20:01 Media's Role in Suicide Awareness23:55 Managing Suicidal Feelings and Finding HopeMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:Papyrus provides confidential support and advice to young people (under 25 years of age)struggling with thoughts of suicide: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/Samaritans works to make sure there's always someone there for anyone who needssomeone: https://www.samaritans.org/Shout is the UK's first and only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service foranyone who is struggling to cope: https://giveusashout.org/Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/James’ Place is a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men at three centresin Liverpool, London and Newcastle: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database: https://hubofhope.co.uk/Alfie’s Squad is a service for children bereaved by suicide: https://alfiessquad.org/Amparo provides emotional and practical support for anyone affected by suicide: https://amparo.org.uk/ CreditsSeries conceived by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaHosted by Gemma Cutting Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    25 Min.
  • S1 Ep03 - Hope in Action: What Communities Can Do

    S1 Ep03 - Hope in Action: What Communities Can Do
    Mar 24 2025
    This episode of Let's Talk Hope focuses on suicide prevention, featuring a diverse range of guests who share their experiences and insights. The conversation highlights the importance of community-based initiatives, the role of data in understanding suicide, and the need for collaboration between different services. The guests emphasize the significance of storytelling in raising awareness and normalizing conversations around mental health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to seek help and utilize available resources.TakeawaysThe podcast aims to reduce the stigma around suicide.Diverse voices are essential in discussing suicide prevention.Community-based services play a crucial role in intervention.Data helps understand the complexities of suicide.Collaboration between services enhances support for individuals in crisis.Storytelling can inspire hope and encourage help-seeking behavior.Awareness of alternative support options is vital for those in need.Normalizing conversations about mental health is key to prevention.Engaging with lived experiences can provide valuable insights.Interconnectedness among organizations strengthens the fight against suicide.Sound Bites"Anyone can be touched by suicide.""Suicide intervention is our core gig.""It's not always a medical thing.""It's about normalising the conversation.""We're all interconnected in this work."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Suicide Prevention and Hope01:30 Diverse Voices in Suicide Prevention02:41 Community-Based Suicide Prevention Initiatives06:10 The Role of Data in Understanding Suicide14:38 Collaboration Between Services20:23 Raising Awareness Through Storytelling25:42 Conclusion and Resources for SupportMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:Papyrus provides confidential support and advice to young people (under 25 years of age)struggling with thoughts of suicide: ⁠https://www.papyrus-uk.org/⁠Samaritans works to make sure there's always someone there for anyone who needssomeone: ⁠https://www.samaritans.org/⁠Shout is the UK's first and only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service foranyone who is struggling to cope: ⁠https://giveusashout.org/⁠Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/⁠James’ Place is a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men at three centresin Liverpool, London and Newcastle: ⁠https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/⁠Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database: ⁠https://hubofhope.co.uk/⁠Alfie’s Squad is a service for children bereaved by suicide: ⁠https://alfiessquad.org/⁠Amparo provides emotional and practical support for anyone affected by suicide: ⁠https://amparo.org.uk/⁠ CreditsSeries conceived by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaHosted by Gemma Cutting Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    27 Min.
  • S1 Ep04 - Women, Menopause and Mental Health

    S1 Ep04 - Women, Menopause and Mental Health
    Mar 24 2025
    This episode of Let's Talk Hope delves into the critical intersection of menopause, mental health, and suicide prevention. Hosted by Gemma Cutting, it features discussions with MP Carolyn Harris and Dr. Louise Newson, who share personal experiences and insights on the stigma surrounding menopause, the importance of advocacy, and the urgent need for awareness and research in this area. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics regarding suicide rates among menopausal women and emphasizes the necessity for better training and understanding within the medical community.TakeawaysThe stigma around menopause affects women's mental health.Women aged 45 to 55 are at the highest risk of suicide.Advocacy is crucial for raising awareness about menopause.Personal experiences can drive passion for change.There is a lack of understanding about menopause in the medical field.Women need to be their own advocates for health.Research is essential to understand the link between menopause and mental health.Community support plays a vital role in women's health.Training for healthcare professionals on menopause is inadequate.Conversations about menopause are becoming more prevalent.Sound Bites"Women aged 45 to 55 are at highest risk of suicide""We need to get the narrative right""There is an answer to this""The world is ending and I'd be in there""This is a time of your life that you can get through""We are our best advocates now""We need to have more evidence, more research""It's not just a problem for women, it's for everyone"Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose01:30 Exploring Menopause and Mental Health03:02 Personal Stories and Experiences with Menopause08:59 The Link Between Menopause and Suicide14:52 Advocacy and Awareness in Menopause Conversations20:02 Research and Data on Menopause and Mental Health24:54 Challenges in Medical Training and Awareness29:51 The Importance of Self-Advocacy for Women35:02 Future Directions in Menopause and Suicide Prevention39:59 Conclusion and Call to ActionMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:Papyrus provides confidential support and advice to young people (under 25 years of age)struggling with thoughts of suicide: ⁠https://www.papyrus-uk.org/⁠Samaritans works to make sure there's always someone there for anyone who needssomeone: ⁠https://www.samaritans.org/⁠Shout is the UK's first and only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service foranyone who is struggling to cope: ⁠https://giveusashout.org/⁠Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/⁠James’ Place is a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men at three centresin Liverpool, London and Newcastle: ⁠https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/⁠Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database: ⁠https://hubofhope.co.uk/⁠Alfie’s Squad is a service for children bereaved by suicide: ⁠https://alfiessquad.org/⁠Amparo provides emotional and practical support for anyone affected by suicide: ⁠https://amparo.org.uk/⁠ CreditsSeries conceived by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaHosted by Gemma Cutting Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    41 Min.
  • S1 Ep01 - Distress in Disguise: Recognising the Signs

    S1 Ep01 - Distress in Disguise: Recognising the Signs
    Mar 24 2025
    In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, host Gemma Cutting and guests Jane Boland and Rob Glover discuss with Prof. Pooja Saini the importance of addressing suicide and mental health openly. They explore the pressures faced by public figures, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the need for community conversations to support those in crisis. The episode emphasizes that anyone can be affected by suicidal thoughts and that it is crucial to create safe spaces for dialogue and support.TakeawaysThe podcast aims to reduce the stigma around suicide.Personal experiences can inspire hope and awareness.Public figures can influence conversations about mental health.Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help.Community support is vital in suicide prevention.Conversations about suicide should happen in everyday settings.It's important to recognize the signs of distress.Preparation is key for having difficult conversations.Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of status.We need more open discussions about mental health.Sound Bites"Anyone can be touched by suicide.""It's okay to talk about it.""We need more people to talk about it.""We need to talk about suicide openly.""We need to break down the stigma.""It's about having that conversation."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Let's Talk Hope01:30 Distress in Disguise: Recognizing the Signs07:30 The Pressure of Public Life13:13 Understanding Suicidal Crisis20:06 Breaking the Stigma Around Suicide28:52 Community Conversations and ResourcesMore Information / Help & SupportFor more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:Papyrus provides confidential support and advice to young people (under 25 years of age)struggling with thoughts of suicide: ⁠https://www.papyrus-uk.org/⁠Samaritans works to make sure there's always someone there for anyone who needssomeone: ⁠https://www.samaritans.org/⁠Shout is the UK's first and only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging support service foranyone who is struggling to cope: ⁠https://giveusashout.org/⁠Mind provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem.: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/⁠James’ Place is a charity offering free, life-saving treatment to suicidal men at three centresin Liverpool, London and Newcastle: ⁠https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/⁠Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database: ⁠https://hubofhope.co.uk/⁠Alfie’s Squad is a service for children bereaved by suicide: ⁠https://alfiessquad.org/⁠Amparo provides emotional and practical support for anyone affected by suicide: ⁠https://amparo.org.uk/⁠ CreditsSeries conceived by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores UniversityProduced and distributed by Innobella MediaHosted by Gemma Cutting Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson
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    31 Min.