A major effort to combat the stigma surrounding suicide is coming to Norwich this September as local leaders and charities prepare to host a pivotal conference aimed at improving support for those affected by bereavement.
“Conversations Around Suicide,” an event organized by the charity Hope After Suicide Loss, is scheduled to take place at Norwich Cathedral on Tuesday, September 22. Under the theme “Support is Prevention: Every Connection Counts,” the conference seeks to create a safe, open environment to address a topic often buried in shame and silence.
The Revd Canon Chris Copsey, a founding member and chairwoman of the charity, emphasized that the event is designed to break the cycle of secrecy that can follow a death by suicide.
“Anybody who has been affected, whether as a bereaved family member or friend, or through their work, should be able to have support and a safe space to express feelings and be with others who understand,” said Canon Copsey. “Saying the word out loud does not make it happen. Historically, suicide was treated as a crime and people who died by suicide were denied the same treatment as others. That history has contributed to the shame and stigma which can still surround it.”
Established in 2018, Hope After Suicide Loss provides essential services across Norfolk and Suffolk, including group meetings, one-to-one telephone support, and specialized counselling sessions. Through this conference, the organization hopes to foster more compassion and better professional understanding of the long-term impact of suicide.
The day-long event will bring together a broad spectrum of attendees, from bereaved families to frontline emergency responders and school representatives. Featured speakers and organizations include Papyrus, Circus Head, YANA, Walking With The Wounded, and the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service.
The agenda will tackle complex challenges, including the mental health impact on police officers who attend suicide-related incidents. Notably, for the first time, a reporter from the Eastern Daily Press will join the panel to discuss the role of the media in reporting on suicide. This session will explore the delicate balance of public interest reporting, the legal necessity of covering inquests, and the importance of using sensitive, non-judgmental language.
The conference is free to attend, but organizers stress that booking is essential due to the nature of the sensitive discussions being held. Those interested in attending can secure their place by emailing chriscopsey@btinternet.com.
Hope After Suicide Loss continues to rely on donations to sustain its work. The charity is actively seeking corporate sponsors to help expand its reach and training opportunities. For more information on the charity’s work or to contribute, visit hopeaftersuicideloss.org.uk.
Anyone needing immediate emotional support can contact the Samaritans at any time, free of charge, by calling 116 123.
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