Brentford expands 'Talking is the Best Tactic' suicide prevention campaign into second season

Brentford FC and Brentford FC Community Sports Trust have expanded their suicide prevention campaign, Talking is the Best Tactic, marking one year since its launch with a series of new measures announced on World Mental Health Day (10 October). The campaign, which encourages conversation to support mental health and help prevent suicide, will this season see more mental health first aiders trained to support fans on matchdays, while stewards receive 'SHUSH' active listening training delivered in partnership with Samaritans. The club has also introduced campaign coasters linking to support resources in local pubs and at the Gtech Community Stadium, and installed five more community benches across west London - including one in Gunnersbury Park - giving people places to pause, connect and talk. The first bench was installed at the club's training ground last year, inspired by consultant psychologist Michael Caulfield. Last month's Premier League fixture against Sunderland was dedicated to the campaign and the Premier League's Together Against Suicide initiative, with supporters encouraged to check in on friends and reach out for support themselves. Alongside the campaign, the Trust continues to run free community programmes, including Singing for Thought, a seven-week singing group, and Walking for Wellbeing, a weekly community walking group. The expansion makes Brentford's one of the most developed club-led mental health campaigns in English football - and a model other clubs can adapt, with matchday staff, stadium spaces and local venues all used as points of connection. If you're struggling, or concerned about someone else, Samaritans are free to call on 116 123, 24 hours a day. Source: Brentford FC, 10 Oct