Delivering virtual suicide awareness training to UK Men’s Sheds

UK Men’s Sheds Association and the Zero Suicide Alliance have built a strong partnership over recent years, working together to promote wellbeing and support Shedders across the UK.

In early 2025, the ZSA delivered a series of virtual suicide‑awareness training sessions designed specifically for Shedders. The sessions focused on building practical skills, increasing confidence, and encouraging open conversations around suicide awareness and prevention.

What the sessions covered

• Suicide statistics and facts
• Suicide and language
• Myth-busting
• Warning signs
• Two Shed-based scenarios
• Signposting
• Tips for starting a conversation
• Q&A

Feedback from Shedders

Feedback was extremely positive, with participants sharing:

“The training was clear, practical and really opened my eyes to how important it is to talk openly. I feel much more confident knowing what to look out for and how to support someone.”

“It was great to have a safe space to learn about something so important. The scenarios really helped bring it to life.”

A message from Men’s Sheds UK

Rachel Meadows, Head of Development at Men’s Sheds UK said:

“Our Shedders look out for one another, and this training has strengthened that sense of care. The ZSA delivered the sessions with real understanding and sensitivity, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.”

This collaboration builds on a shared commitment to reducing stigma, promoting connection, and ensuring Shedders feel equipped to support one another.

Commissioning a session for your own group can help strengthen those same protective connections in your community.