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  Everyone is welcome Pride_flag1_USE_THIS.jpg

Your latest update from Thrive LDN (August 2026)

Thrive_LDN_logo.jpegThrive LDN is a citywide partnership to ensure that all Londoners have an equal opportunity to good mental health. See the contents below and a web copy of the full newsletter here.

The Gift of Reconnection trauma-informed practice training - new impact report

The Gift of Reconnection is a free, online training programme designed to help professionals understand the impact of psychological trauma.

Developed by specialist Dr Nicola Lester, the materials consist of flexible video modules that translate complex psychological concepts into accessible learning. The core focus is on integrating simple, compassionate responses into daily interactions.

Our recently published impact and learning review demonstrates the highly positive impact the programme is having on practitioners. New feedback from participants shows how different sectors are adapting the learning to support their own practice.

The core modules have been accessed more than 10,000 times to date. To mark this milestone, Dr Nicola Lester also reflects on the development of The Gift of Reconnection training programme.

The Gift of Reconnection impact

Dr Nicola Lester's reflections

World Suicide Prevention Day 2026

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on September 10. The day aims to unites global communities to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote action to prevent suicide. 

We outline below just some of the events taking place to mark the day which you can join. You can also explore a wider range on The International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) website

World Suicide Prevention Day Conference 2026
10 Sept, 10am - 11am, Online

South East London Suicide Bereavement Service partners host their 8th annual conference and service of remembrance. Register online.

World Suicide Prevention Day walk
11am - 6pm, Hammersmith Bridge to Tower Bridge.

Join Bridge Watch on a walk and talk from Hammersmith Bridge to Tower Bridge, culminating with a church service and networking drinks at All Hallows by the Tower (6pm). Join at any time, simply RSVP for route and timings: bridgewatch@ascensiontrust.org.uk

Stories of Hope: short film premieres
10 Sept, 2pm-5pm and 5pm-6.30pm, Lumiere Cinema, Romford
Join a short film screening, Q&A and discussion exploring hope, recovery and lived experience of suicide. Watch the trailer. Register: afternoon session or early evening session

Listen Out - Sounds Better Together!
10 Sept, 7pm - 10pm, Big Penny Social, Walthamstow

Join the launch of Listen Out, a new music event bringing together amazing artists, charities and communities at Big Penny Social. Confirmed headliners include Shocka and AnderSol. Get tickets online.

 

Thrive LDN x Zero Suicide Alliance training feedback

We have been exploring how Londoners are applying the Zero Suicide Alliance awareness training in their personal and professional lives.

1,250 people have so far joined a Thrive LDN x Zero Suicide Alliance workshop, supported and funded by the Mayor of London. The free sessions provide practical tools to help participants recognise the warning signs of suicidal behaviour and build confidence to start supportive conversations.

Feedback from attendees gives the sessions an impressive average rating of 4.75 out of 5. By joining the online workshops, people reported increased confidence when it comes to initiating difficult conversations and guiding vulnerable people towards professional support. We also heard about tangible changes in their daily practice.

Explore the workshop feedback

There is still one session remaining in our live, workshop series, scheduled for Friday, 9 Oct to coincide with World Mental Health Day. Join us.

Join a live ZSA workshop

Take the ZSA training now

 

ClimateKind launches new website to help Londoners find their place in climate action

We know many people already care about climate change, but aren’t always sure how they fit into the solutions. 

People often tell us they want to know how they can make a difference and connect their actions to something bigger. ClimateKind exists to help more Londoners take part in climate action in ways that feel relevant, practical and meaningful to them.

You can get involved. Explore upcoming events from ClimateKind partners and discover opportunities to connect, learn and take action with others.

ClimateKind website

ClimateKind events

 

Climate action and wellbeing survey

Anyone aged 16 years and over living in the UK is invited to take part in a short survey exploring climate action, environmental engagement, wellbeing, and mental health. 

The survey, led by ClimateKind partners KCL, will help us better understand people's experiences and perspectives, and the findings will contribute to research, policy, and practical initiatives that support both individual and community wellbeing in the context of climate change.

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. The survey is part of ClimateKind, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. 

ClimateKind survey 

 

Grassroots Community Resilience Pilot case studies

Thrive LDN and Peace Collective CIC have published a collection of case studies detailing the outcomes of the Grassroots Community Resilience Pilot. 

Operating across London, the initiative provided grant funding, supported and funded by the Mayor of London, to neighbourhood and grassroots organisations to explore how everyday activities can improve mental wellbeing. 

Projects supported groups facing structural pressures, such as displacement or social exclusion, by integrating gentle support into familiar routines like communal kitchens and sewing groups. The resulting reports offer a clear look at how local groups establish safety and consistency without relying on clinical frameworks.

By recording observations, reflections and daily experiences straight from the frontline, these case studies provide a direct account of how support was experienced and delivered within communities.

Read more

 

Managing the emotional impact of supporting others

Supporting other people takes a considerable amount of emotional energy. Assisting those going through difficult times can directly affect your personal wellbeing. 

People frequently focus entirely on the individual they are helping and overlook their own needs as a result. Continually absorbing another person's stress can lead to emotional exhaustion. Spotting these signs early is an important step to maintain your mental health. This awareness ensures you can offer sustainable support while protecting your own limits.

To help manage everyday pressures, explore our latest guides, developed with Peace Collective, tailored to different settings. These resources provide straightforward strategies to identify early signs of emotional strain, establish boundaries and build recovery time into your routine. These resources have been funded and supported by the Mayor of London.

Community guide

This resource contains practical advice for volunteers, neighbours and community workers dealing with the emotional demands of grassroots support.

Educators guide

This resource features specific strategies for teachers and school staff to manage their wellbeing while supporting students and colleagues.

Read the guides

 

New mental health guide to support migrant communities across the capital

Thrive LDN has partnered with Doctors of the World UK and the Mayor of London to launch a new wellbeing guide for people seeking sanctuary.

The "It's Okay Not To Be Okay" resource offers practical support for Londoners experiencing emotional strain linked to displacement. The guide was written by individuals with lived experience of the UK asylum and healthcare systems. Their involvement ensures the advice reflects the realities of rebuilding a life in a new country.

Inside, the authors share five approaches to protecting mental health. The tips cover building connections, taking news breaks, practising self-compassion, gentle movement, and drawing strength from cultural traditions. Please read and circulate the guide with anyone who might find it helpful.

Download the resource

 

READ THE FULL THRIVE LDN AUGUST UPDATE HERE