Lifeline South Coast will be facilitating a safeTALK suicide awareness workshop in Ulladulla on Thursday, June 28 at the Dunn Lewis Centre from 1pm to 4.30pm.

At a suicide awareness session like safeTALK, participants will learn the types of signs to watch out for and how to connect someone to the longer-term care they need.

Lifeline South Coast acting CEO Clare Leslie has invited residents of the region to attend the training workshop to learn valuable skills.

“In the same way that first aid training is a skill for life, I want everyone to consider suicide prevention training as a skill for life. We can all play a part in suicide prevention,” Ms Leslie said.

“This type of face-to-face training will give participants confidence to have discussions with someone at-risk of suicide about their suicidal thoughts. The training will also discuss options for further care and keeping people safe.”

Suicide remains the leading cause of death for people under the age of 44 years and men continue to be at a higher risk of dying from suicide.

Last year, Lifeline South Coast answered more than 23,500 calls on the 24-hour crisis support line.

But more can be done,  Ms Leslie said.

“By participating in suicide prevention training, community members can play their part in reducing the number of lives lost to suicide.”

An accredited trainer will deliver the workshop and a support person, who has a lived experience of suicide, will also be available in the room.

The workshop is open to anyone over the age of 15. All training material will be supplied. Tea/coffee will be available. Numbers are limited. Register to attend at www.lifelinesouthcoast.org.au

Lifeline South Coast also offers a range of suicide prevention training including QPR which is a one-hour online training package for only $10; half day face-to-face awareness sessions such as safeTALK; and the two-day intervention level ASIST program. Details can be found on the website www.lifelinesouthcoast.org.au.

Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.