Bury’s First Suicide Prevention Conference: We’re in this together!

Last week, something powerful happened in Bury.

The town held its first-ever Suicide Prevention Conference, a heartfelt and inspiring day that brought together those working on the ground to support mental health and save lives. Organised by The Big Fandango and The Creative Living Centre, the event marked the start of something important: a more connected, community-driven approach to suicide prevention.

There’s already so much incredible work being done across Bury by charities, volunteers, healthcare workers, and people with lived experience. But as the conference highlighted, so much more is still needed. And it’s not just Bury that needs this change. Oldham and Saddleworth need to change too.

Suicide rates in the UK remain heartbreakingly steady. Despite awareness campaigns and services in place, too many people are still falling through the cracks. The message throughout the day was clear: real change happens at a community level. It’s not just about professionals—though their work is vital—but about all of us playing a role.

The conference was filled with honesty, hope, and practical action. Here are just a few powerful quotes that emerged from the day:

“Everybody is a priority for somebody”

“If we listen, we can’t get it wrong”

“In the darkness things get worse, let’s bring them out into the light”

These are more than just words—they’re a call to action.

Whether it’s taking part in mental health training, checking in on a friend, volunteering, or simply learning how to listen without judgment, we all have a part to play. Community isn’t just where we live—it’s how we show up for each other.

This first conference was a brilliant beginning. Let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s talk more, listen better, and build stronger, more compassionate networks of support.

Together, we can help bring those numbers down.