Suicide prevention should be part of ‘game plan’ in sport, says William

The Prince of Wales has called for suicide prevention to be part of the sporting world’s “game plan” as he urged clubs, competitors and fans to help “save lives”.

William spoke as he launched a toolkit providing practical advice to support those in crisis in changing rooms or on playing fields, and he was joined by wife Kate who made a surprise appearance at the event in Liverpool.

A host of sporting stars were part of the mini-summit at Everton Football Club, with double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes speaking movingly about “reaching out” for help five years ago due to her “suicidal tendencies”.

The Prince of Wales launched a new suicide prevention toolkit called On Your Side (Shirlaine Forrest/PA)

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The launch of the suicide prevention toolkit called On Your Side was the first joint royal event William and Kate have undertaken since their summer break and the return of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to the UK.

Speaking on World Suicide Prevention Day, William said: “Prevention works when responsibility is shared. When people have the confidence to act and when organisations provide the tools, knowledge and culture that make those actions possible.

“That is what today is about.

“Giving people the confidence to step forward, giving organisations a practical way to make a difference, and bringing the sporting community together behind a shared purpose.”

Dame Kelly Holmes was among those sharing their own experiences at the event (Shirlaine Forrest/PA)

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On Your Side offers advice on spotting warning signs, starting a conversation with someone suspected of having mental health issues, asking direct questions like “are you thinking about suicide?”, and signposting them to further support.

The toolkit debunks the “myth” that talking about suicide promotes the idea, stating: “In fact, it opens up a conversation that can help someone feel heard, less alone, and more willing to seek support.”

The couple’s first duty when they arrived at Everton’s stadium was to honour the legacy of Gary Speed, by sitting on a bench erected last season in memory of the former Everton player and manager of Wales, who was found hanged in his home in 2011.

They were joined on the long wooden seat by the sportsman’s mother Carol, who in the past has said she will never find the answer as to why her son died, but has urged others to talk about their mental health and seek help.

William and Kate sat on the Gary Speed memorial bench and spoke to his mother Carol (Shirlaine Forrest/PA)

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The prince, with the princess by his side, asked Mrs Speed if she thought Gary was a “breakthrough” moment for people talking, and she replied it was.

In his speech to guests, who included ex-Lioness Jill Scott and former cyclist Dame Laura Kenny, Britain’s most successful female Olympian, William concluded by offering words of support to those struggling with their mental health.

He said “Reaching out is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of strength. Whether it is a friend, a family member, a teammate, a coach, or a professional service, please take that first step and reach out to someone you trust.

“Because your life matters. And help is there.

“So our challenge to everyone here today is this: Make suicide prevention part of your game plan.”

– Call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.