HPFT plays role in new Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Strategy

16 Jan 26

At HPFT, we are dedicated to preventing suicide and supporting people experiencing mental health conditions.

We are proud to be a partner in the new Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Strategy for 2025–2030, working alongside local organisations through the Suicide Prevention Network.

Two hands holding a yellow awareness ribbon on a light marble background. The ribbon symbolises suicide prevention and support for mental health awareness.

The strategy’s vision is to work together to prevent suicides and promote mental wellness, ensuring that every person in Hertfordshire feels heard, supported, and equipped with the help they need. Developed with professionals and people with lived experience, it focuses on reaching people before they reach crisis point.

The strategy places HPFT’s Suicide Prevention Pathway at the heart of the countywide approach to saving lives. The pathway, shaped by the voices of those with lived experience, families, and carers affected by suicide, ensures every person experiencing suicidal distress receives compassionate, person‑centred support and a consistent standard of care across the Trust.

Key elements of the pathway include:

Building connection by listening with empathy and having open conversations
Reducing risk through working together on risk assessments and creating a safety plan
Providing support with timely follow‑up, clear handovers, and proactive help.

As part of this work, HPFT has introduced suicide prevention training for colleagues through the Simulation Hub, and have developed practical resources such as self-help modules, prevention strategies, online therapies and 24/7 access to education materials for anyone on pathway.

Professor Emma Wadey, Chief Nursing Officer, shares:

“We continue to be committed to preventing all suicides across our community, by engaging and learning from those with a lived experience, training and supporting our staff, improving our care environments, and ensuring timely and effective interventions to those in distress. Together we can prevent suicide.”

Dr Rakesh Magon, Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Pathway Lead and Acting Chief Medical Director, shares:

"Suicide prevention is everyone’s business – and together we can make sure that every person in Hertfordshire feels heard, supported and safe."

If you would like to learn more about the strategy, you can read it here.

Related Pages

HPFT plays role in new Hertfordshire Suicide Prevention Strategy