We know that news stories and media coverage about suicide can deeply affect individuals, families, and our wider community. These stories can bring up difficult feelings, questions, or memories, and we want to reassure you that you do not have to face this alone. Support is available.
As the mental health support partnership for Brighton & Hove, UOK stands alongside anyone who has been affected by suicide. If you’re living with thoughts of suicide, feeling overwhelmed, or have been bereaved by suicide, please know that help is here for you.
Where to Find Support
SOS Service (Rethink Mental Illness)
Free, confidential support for anyone affected by suicide. Offers practical help, and a safe space to talk.
Grassroots Suicide Prevention
Explore their Suicide Prevention Hub for support, training, resources, and community tools.
Stay Alive App
Download this UK-wide suicide prevention app for 24/7 access to safety plans, contacts, grounding tools, and more.
Qwell
A free confidential digital mental health service for adults 18+. Access live counselling, self-help tools, and community support 24/7.
E-wellbeing Homepage
It is a digital wellbeing and participation service for young people run by ‘YMCA DownsLink Group.’
UOK Central Access Point
Not sure where to start?
Email: chat@uok.org.uk
Phone: 0808 196 1768 (Mon–Fri, 9–5)
Responsible Reporting
We would also like to gently remind everyone of the importance of sensitive reporting. It is extremely important that the media avoids sharing explicit details, does not sensationalise, and always includes messages of hope and help.
The Samaritans’ media guidelines offer clear, evidence-based advice on how to report safely and responsibly, and we encourage all outlets to follow this guidance to help protect vulnerable people.
Media Statement
For media enquiries, please use the following quote:
A UOK spokesperson said: “Losing a life to suicide is always deeply heartbreaking. We also recognise that how suicide is covered in the media can affect those who may be feeling vulnerable. If you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or you’re worried about someone you care about, please visit the UOK website to find local support, helplines, and resources to help you or someone else stay safe and get support.”
Crisis Contacts
If you are in crisis or worried about someone’s immediate. safety, please call 999 or the Sussex Mental Healthline on 0800 0309 500 (24/7).
If you have questions or would like to speak to us directly, please contact us at communications@southdown.org.
