Bridge Watch volunteers share how they use the ZSA training

The Bridge Watch Programme in London aims to provide a physical presence of teams of volunteers who patrol the areas on and around the bridges of London and who have a brief to engage or intervene with anybody indicating intent to enter the water for, primarily, but not limited to, the purpose of suicide. 

Thrive LDN, a Greater London public mental health partnership, spoke to Bridge Watch programme coordinator, Paul Maloney, who highlighted how the training is a key part of the onboarding for new volunteers to increase their confidence and knowledge on what questions to ask when intervening with vulnerable individuals.

Paul Maloney, Bridge Watch coordinator, said: “We get a lot of interest from people who want to volunteer but might be unsure if this is a role they’re able to do or what exactly will be asked of them. The Zero Suicide Alliance training is the first thing any potential new volunteers are asked to complete as it’s a helpful way of showing that anyone can do this.

“The importance of spotting signs of distress, active listening, and showing empathy and understanding to someone in need is what can make a difference and save a life. All our volunteers undertake further training, but the Zero Suicide Alliance training is an important part of someone’s introduction and supports their decision to become a volunteer with Bridge Watch.

“We are fully behind the #ZeroSuicideLDN campaign and actively help promote this in other settings, meetings, or networking sessions. The more people who take the training across London means more people who feel confident and able to act and support someone who may be reaching a point of crisis, wherever that may be.”