S1 Ep07 - Barbers & Suicide Prevention

This episode of Let's Talk Hope focuses on the innovative role of barbers in suicide prevention. Host Gemma Cutting, alongside Professor Pooja Saini, engages with barbers Tom, Graham and Charlotte, who share their experiences and the importance of training barbers to recognize and address mental health issues. The conversation highlights personal stories, the structure of the training and the broader implications of barbershop conversations in community mental health support.TakeawaysThe stigma around suicide can be reduced through open conversations.Barbers and hairdressers have a unique relationship with clients that fosters trust.Training barbers in mental health can empower them to help clients in need.Personal experiences often drive individuals to engage in suicide prevention efforts.The training focuses on recognizing signs of distress and how to ask the right questions.Listening without judgment is crucial in mental health conversations.Barbers can play a significant role in community mental health support.The impact of barbershop conversations can be life-saving.Research is needed to validate the effectiveness of this training.The hair and beauty industry has a vital role in mental health awareness.Sound Bites"We need to listen and respond well.""It's okay to talk to me.""We can make a huge difference.""It's not just a client, it's a friendship.""If we save one life, it's all worthwhile."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Suicide Prevention and Community Engagement01:30 The Role of Barbers in Mental Health Conversations02:56 Personal Stories and Motivations Behind the Training07:12 Training Structure and Its Importance12:39 The Impact of Training on Barbers and Clients20:11 Research and Future Directions in Suicide Prevention24:36 The Broader Impact of Barbershop ConversationsMore 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-PowellMusic Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson