NHFT colleagues deliver Suicide Prevention training to Royal and Derngate staff
This week, the stage musical 'Dear Evan Hansen' is touring at the Royal and Derngate theatre. The musical follows Evan Hansen, a bullied 17-year-old with social anxiety, depression, and a recently broken arm, and significantly, the theme of suicide is present throughout the show.
NHFT and the Royal and Derngate theatre have worked together over a number of years supporting the BBC's annual Headfest event, designed to raise awareness of mental health support services available across the county. Once again the two organisations have teamed up with NHFT delivering suicide awareness and prevention training for the Royal and Derngate staff, an invaluable collaboration that highlights the importance of community and shared responsibility.
By partnering with experts in mental health, the theatre staff gain the knowledge and tools necessary to support both the cast and the audience through the sensitive themes of 'suicide and hope' explored in 'Dear Evan Hansen'. This proactive approach ensures that everyone involved is not only prepared to respond to emotional distress, but is also equipped to recognise early warning signs and provide appropriate support and signposting to local services. Upskilling the workforce in suicide prevention helps foster a safe and supportive environment, enabling staff to handle any challenges that may arise in a sensitive and compassionate manner, ultimately safeguarding the wellbeing of everyone involved in the production.
Lisa Pearson, Trustwide Suicide Prevention Lead and Andy Willis, Expert by Experience Lead at NHFT, delivered the suicide prevention and awareness training, and have provided some signposting information in the foyer for anyone who has been impacted by the show, is looking for support, or generally interested in organisations that can provide support.
Lisa said: "Suicide remains one of those stigmatised topics, and we work really hard to encourage people to have conversations about suicide, to ask friends and family members how they are and then to ask again. By providing training to our partners at the Royal and Derngate while 'Dear Evan Hansen' is touring, we provide staff members with tools and resources to support anyone who finds the subject matter difficult. We have also left some resources and signposting materials that members of the public can take away. We hope what people will take away is the importance of having a conversation about mental health."
If you are concerned about your own mental health or that of someone else, you can call the 24 hour Northamptonshire Mental Health Number on 0800 448 0828. You can also visit the NHFT help page which has a range of support options for those experiencing mental ill health. If you are concerned about an immediate risk of harm, either to yourself or someone else, please call 999.