HereToTalk, the award‑winning mental health training initiative dedicated to empowering individuals to engage in safe, supportive conversations around mental health, proudly announces the launch of its brand‑new remote online training, scheduled for September 10, 2025 – World Suicide Prevention Day.
The HereToTalk Launch
This launch is especially meaningful as it coincides with the 10‑year anniversary of the founding of Lions Barber Collective by Tom Chapman, which began on September 10 2015, after he lost a friend to suicide. Ten years later, despite challenges and changes, including its formal status as a charity from 2018 until its closure in 2024, Tom’s journey and mission remain unwavering.
"It has not been an easy journey. There have been moments when I wanted to give it all up and never did. The Lions Barber Collective became a charity in 2018 and closed as a charity in 2024. This mission has become my purpose. We have lost people along the way, but we have also had such a positive impact on so many people, and saved many lives, that we must continue. With our remote online training I hope that we can reach people from around the globe and create safer conversations and early intervention when it comes to suicide and mental well‑being—saving lives with one conversation at a time," said Tom.
Drawing on the spirit and legacy of Lions Barber Collective, the HereToTalk Online Training is an accessible, award‑winning programme.
The HereToTalk Programme
• Empowers participants to engage confidently and compassionately in conversations around mental health distress.
• Fosters early intervention, crisis recognition, and emotional support.
• Is delivered remotely, breaking geographical barriers to reach global audiences.
• Amplifies the mission of destigmatising mental health through proactive, human‑centred communication.
Why World Suicide Prevention Day Matters
This is a global moment for solidarity, awareness, and proactive mental health action. Ten years ago, on September 10, 2015, Tom Chapman launched the Lions Barber Collective in response to personal loss – an initiative that grew into a beacon of hope for many. The training launch is a commemoration of survival, resilience, and the power of conversation to heal.
Audiences can expect training designed for individuals, communities, and organisations across borders. Evidence‑based methods using real-world experience and proven communication frameworks will be delivered online but rooted in empathy, connection, and cultural sensitivity. Participants will leave equipped not just with knowledge, but with confidence to act – creating safer environments where someone’s life might depend on one conversation.
“I urge people to help spread the word and share our training on social media using #HereToTalk2025 and #WorldSuicidePreventionDay. Organisations, influencers, and media are invited to join the movement and help us reach more hearts and minds,” adds Tom.
