I recently attended a training session through Shropshire Council on Suicide Prevention and upon completion of the training became an Orange Button Holder. The Orange Button Scheme has been introduced locally as part of efforts to raise awareness of suicide prevention, reduce stigma and to build supportive communities. 

Being an Orange Button Holder means I am able to provide support and awareness of suicide and suicide prevention. I can listen empathetically, support and signpost to other support services. By being an Orange Button Holder does not mean I am a Therapist or a Counsellor. From completing the training with Shropshire Council,  I am equipped to encourage conversations meaning, making that conversation easier for individuals to talk about suicide openly with no stigma. 

My role consists of : 

• Being approachable and not running from the word suicide 
• To be a connector,  a first point to start a conversation
• To be a non-judgemental, caring and understanding listener
• To give signposting support and information
• Someone to ask directly about suicide. 

Supporting Services

Samaritans  - Tel 116 123 (Available 24 hours a day)

Hub Of Hope - https://hubofhope.co.uk/

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

To find out more about becoming an Orange Button Holder take a look at your Local Authorities website.  You can find more information via this video  - 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gu-AgazwcYw