Families Voices Forum

19/02/2026

Families Voices Forum had the privilege of speaking at the Derry City & Strabane District Council Mayor’s Civic Forum last week, sharing its work directly with MLAs and civic leaders.

Gerard Ryan, Project Coordinator, outlined nearly 20 years of volunteer-led impact influencing Protect Life 2, improving su***de awareness training and strengthening support for those bereaved by su***de.

We highlighted the Forum's Voices of Hope manifesto (link in the comments for anyone who wants to find out why su***de prevention is everybody’s business) and stressed the importance of:

- a properly trained workforce
- sustained funding for community mental health services and stronger early intervention, particularly for young people
- ensuring lived experience continues to shape policy

Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District

19/11/2025

Massive thank you to everyone who braved the elements today to learn about and celebrate the importance of postvention in the world of su***de prevention.

More to come soon!

19/09/2025

We are proud to be exhibiting today at the Neurodiversity Conference. Come by and say hi!

10/09/2025

When you’re struggling to cope, . Talk to a friend, family member or someone you trust. You can also call and speak to a counsellor for free, 24/7.

Call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000 or visit lifelinehelpline.info

03/09/2025

We have set up shop in Newry for the day, with and - come on by and say hello!

29/05/2025

03/04/2025

Youth engagement in su***de prevention, lived experience and the vital services offered by the community and voluntary sector were all on the agenda at the Families Voices Forum Building Hope in the West event at the Everglades hotel.

✒️Read Project Coordinator Gerard's recap of the event on our website now... https://www.dhcni.com/blogs/families-voices-forum-building-hope-in-the-west-event

01/04/2025

Wonderful event today as Samaritans launch their latest research report at Stormont, Belfast. Informative discussions and great insights from panelists and audience alike.

22/01/2025

Do you want to make a difference and be a key voice in su***de prevention and postvention in Northern Ireland? Then join us today using the form below and we will be in touch.

https://forms.office.com/e/qYKdJqcaqr

If you are in distress and need immediate help, we would encourage you to please contact:

Lifeline – 0808 808 8000

Samaritans – 116 123

10/01/2025

We are a regional group of friends and family members who have been bereaved by su***de. Through lived experience, Families Voices play an integral part in advocating, shaping and pushing for positive change in su***de prevention across Northern Ireland.

We have big plans for 2025 onward and are on the lookout for fresh voices to help achieve significant change in the world of su***de prevention and postvention. If you would like to help make a difference, register your interest through the link below or by emailing [email protected]

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=x_eLQiWae0adAeQkzOmVV5hoQQqJW8JPtdlrf1PmUBtUNzZRUTNKVVhEMDRPRDhPMzlaNDQ0S0dPSi4u&route=shorturl