Taxi and private hire drivers across Greater Manchester are being encouraged to complete a free, 10-minute online suicide awareness training course aimed at equipping them with the skills to identify and support individuals who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts.
The initiative is part of the “Shining a Light on Suicide” campaign, led by NHS Greater Manchester, which seeks to break the stigma surrounding suicide and make support more accessible. With over 200 lives lost to suicide in the region each year, the campaign emphasizes that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility.
Greater Manchester is home to more than 18,500 licensed taxi and private hire drivers. Given their daily interactions with a diverse range of passengers, drivers are in a unique position to notice when someone might be in distress.
The training, developed by the Zero Suicide Alliance (ZSA), is tailored specifically for the taxi and private hire industry. It guides drivers through real-life scenarios, teaching them how to:
- Recognize warning signs of suicidal behavior
- Engage in supportive, direct conversations
- Signpost individuals to appropriate support services
Dr. Manisha Kumar, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, stated:
“At NHS Greater Manchester, we’re committed to preventing suicide and supporting people’s mental health. A big part of that is working in partnership with others across the city-region, including those outside traditional healthcare roles. Taxi and private hire drivers interact with a wide range of people every day in all sorts of circumstances; and this training offers a simple, effective way to help them feel more confident supporting someone who might be struggling.”
Dr. Claire Iveson, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Strategic Lead at Zero Suicide Alliance, added:
“We know talking about suicide can be difficult, but we believe that the more people who feel equipped and empowered to talk about suicide, the more chance there is for potentially life-saving conversations to happen.”
David Lawrie, Director of the National Private Hire and Taxi Association, emphasized the industry’s role:
“Our industry could be considered an extension of the emergency services, as we play a vital role in supporting people, often in difficult situations. For many people, taxi and private hire drivers can be their main form of social contact, which puts us in a unique position to spot any issues and point people towards the right support.”
Eccles-based taxi driver Rob Berrisford shared his experience with the training:
“It’s mostly common sense, but it gives you the confidence to act if something feels off. It reminded me that even a small conversation can mean a lot to someone who’s having a tough time.”
The training is available online and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate. While designed for taxi and private hire drivers, the course is open to anyone over the age of 16.
To access the training, visit: www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suicide-training-taxi.
For additional support:
- Greater Manchester Bereavement Service: www.greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk
- Hub of Hope: www.hubofhope.co.uk
- Shining a Light on Suicide: www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk
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