By Leanne Moulton (Academy Lead)
Harmless is proud to announce the development of a new training course focused on self harm and suicide prevention within the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. A group that often faces significant health inequalities and is underrepresented in Self Harm and Suicide Prevention strategies.
This initiative was part of a wider engagement and training project under the Wave 4 Suicide Prevention Programme to reduce suicide rates and improve mental health and well-being and was governed by the Public Health teams of Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council. The project aimed to build the capacity of groups, organisations, and frontline settings working with communities at increased risk of suicide, including Gypsy Roma Traveller communities.
Understanding the Need
From the outset, it was essential that this work be rooted in the lived experiences of the communities we sought to support. We began by identifying the unique needs and barriers that Gypsy, Roma and Traveller individuals face in relation to self harm and suicide prevention. This meant listening carefully, acknowledging cultural stigma, structural discrimination, culturally appropriate and consistent mental health services and support.
Engagement and Awareness
Throughout the project, we attended a broad range of relevant events and community forums to raise awareness and share information about suicide prevention resources. These spaces also helped us build trust, hear directly from those with lived experience, and connect with organisations already supporting Gypsy Roma Traveller communities.
Consultation with Key Advocacy and Support Organisations
A vital part of the project was engaging with organisations who already work closely with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. We consulted with key advocacy and support organisations such as One Call Away and Friends, Families and Travellers, who provided valuable insight into the specific challenges and support needs faced by these communities. Their input helped ensure our training was grounded in real world experiences and aligned with what the communities actually need.
Training Needs Analysis
To ensure our training would be both relevant and impactful, we carried out a comprehensive training needs analysis. This included surveys, one-to-one conversations, and focus groups with practitioners, community leaders, and support organisations. Through this, we gained insight into the challenges professionals face when supporting Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities as well as where they lacked confidence or knowledge.
Developing and Delivering the Training
Using these insights, we created a bespoke training course designed to boost the confidence, cultural competency, and practical skills of professionals working with Gypsy Roma Traveller communities. The training covers key topics such as:
- Improve awareness of self harm and suicide in the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community
- Understand the unique risk factors that impact this community
- Reduce stigma and discrimination associated with self harm and suicide in the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community
- Develop skills to create an inclusive environment and support someone affected by self harm and/or suicide
- Improve confidence and competence to understand and manage self harm and suicide
- Increase engagement from the community with support services
- Consider signposting to appropriate local and national services
In 2024, we delivered this training across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, equipping local teams with the tools to better support Gypsy, Roma and Traveller individuals and families.
Now Publicly Launched
We’re excited to announce that the course is now publicly available, aligning with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. This is a fitting time to amplify awareness, celebrate culture, and ensure that more professionals and organisations have access to the tools and knowledge they need to support Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities effectively and compassionately.
Moving Forward
This course is just one step in a broader journey toward more equitable, inclusive, and effective suicide prevention efforts. Our hope is that it will serve not only as a learning tool but also as a starting point for deeper, sustained engagement with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. We’re incredibly grateful to all of the individuals and organisations who contributed their time, insight, and lived experience to shape this work especially our partners at One Call Away and Friends, Families and Travellers.
Our Training
To learn more about this course or enquire about our full range of training options, please email sales@harmless.org.uk
Other Contacts
Friends, Families and Travellers: https://www.gypsy-traveller.org/contact-us/
One Call Away: onecallawaytoday@gmail.com
