Debbie Beard and Amanda Thorpe share their story at suicide prevention toolkit launch

At the launch of a new suicide‑prevention toolkit, the BBC’s Simon Jack sat down with Debbie Beard and Amanda Thorpe, both of whom have experienced the loss of a spouse.

Beard and Thorpe shared how the deaths of their husbands left them grappling with profound grief, a struggle that ultimately led them to become advocates for mental‑health support.

The toolkit, unveiled at the event, is designed to give families and friends practical guidance on how to recognise the signs of suicidal ideation and where to find help.

By speaking openly about their personal journeys, Beard and Thorpe hope to reduce the stigma that often surrounds bereavement and encourage others to reach out for assistance.

The launch marks the first step in a broader campaign that will see the toolkit distributed across community groups, schools and health‑care settings, with the aim of saving lives through early intervention.