A suicide prevention collaboration between SWLSTG and lived experience members.
A group of dedicated volunteers with personal experience of suicide have created a compelling film, Hold the Hope, aimed at breaking the silence surrounding suicide. Drawing from their own lived experiences, the film serves as a catalyst to spark open, honest conversations about suicide, while empowering others with the insights they’ve gained from their own journeys.
Hold the Hope is part of a life-saving training session being delivered to local schools, the British Transport Police, and other organisations across South West London and beyond. The training is being delivered by the volunteers alongside Justine Trippier, the Trust’s joint suicide prevention lead.
Watch the trailer:
The film is divided into two parts. The first part is a powerful poem that takes viewers on the journey of someone experiencing a mental health crisis, offering insight into their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. The second part goes behind the scenes, featuring candid interviews with the volunteers who share their personal stories and the motivation behind the project.
The volunteer team is made up of individuals who have either faced suicidal thoughts, cared for someone in crisis, or experienced the profound loss of a loved one to suicide. Their courage and commitment are at the heart of Hold the Hope, as they strive to break down barriers, raise awareness, and inspire hope.
One of the volunteers, Lee, reflected on his involvement: “I’m fortunate enough to have survived my suicide attempts. I felt drawn to this project to help shine a light on the despair that many people feel when they’re suicidal, and to show that there is a way forward – even in the darkest of times.
"I hope the film opens up conversations about suicide, helping those affected to feel unashamed, free from stigma, and embraced with understanding. Working on Hold the Hope has been an honour and a humbling experience. I’m stronger today for being part of it. If this film saves even one life, we’ve done our job.”
Justine Trippier said: “There has never been a more important time to talk about suicide. Many of us, about 1 in 5, experience suicidal thoughts, but those thoughts can be interrupted. Simple actions – like speaking openly and compassionately – can make all the difference when someone is in crisis.
"Hold the Hope is about learning how to support others who may be struggling and not being afraid to use the word 'suicide.' I am incredibly grateful to our lived-experience volunteers for their honesty, bravery, and willingness to share their stories to inspire hope and help others."
Hold the Hope is part of the Trust's co-produced 2024-27 Suicide Prevention Strategy. The film was commissioned by NHS South West London’s Suicide Prevention Programme and is supported by the London Mental Health Transformation Board, which provides regional leadership in improving mental health services.
You can support the hold the Hope team with the delivery of their training and strategy by making a donation here.
