Suicide Prevention Scotland newsletter - August 2026
Our August 2026 newsletter highlights the latest developments in suicide prevention work across Scotland, from national campaigns and education initiatives to community-led support and new resources.
The latest update includes details of our new documentary-length film, which launched on World Suicide Prevention Day. Featuring Phil Wanless and his family, the film explores what Phil wishes he had known before his son Fraser died by suicide.
The newsletter also highlights a new series of resources exploring suicide-related stigma. Developed using lived experience and research evidence, the resources look at how stigma can affect individuals, families and communities, including how it can influence people's willingness to talk about suicide or seek support.
Work is also progressing to strengthen suicide prevention in schools. An evidence report has been developed bringing together academic research, practitioner insight and young people's voices. The work emphasises the important role schools can play, while recognising that effective suicide prevention requires wider support from families, health services, community organisations and mental health professionals.
For children and young people, the Enabling Conversations Toolkit continues to be rolled out across Scotland. Co-produced with young people, adults and subject experts, the resource aims to help young people and trusted adults feel more confident talking about mental health and suicide.
The newsletter also showcases the United to Prevent Suicide declaration, as well as local approaches, including Mikeysline's Hive on the Road, which is bringing suicide prevention and mental health support directly into rural and remote communities across the Highlands, Islands and Moray.
Meanwhile, bereavement support groups in East Ayrshire are providing peer-led support for people affected by a suicide loss, with groups now operating across a number of community settings.