Training for Bridge Watch Volunteers

Naloxone Training

Naloxone is the emergency antidote for overdoses caused by heroin and other opiates or opioids (such as methadone, morphine and fentanyl).

The main life-threatening effect of heroin and other opiates is to slow down and stop breathing. Naloxone blocks this effect and reverses the breathing difficulties.

Naloxone is a prescription-only medicine, so pharmacies cannot sell it over the counter. But drug services can supply it without a prescription. And anyone can use it to save a life in an emergency.

Bridge Watch volunteers received training from Turning Point at Tower Pier where they were provided with a comprehensive and detailed presentation about how Naloxone works, support from 999, and how to administer it.

Zero-Suicide Alliance Online Training

All volunteers are required to complete the Zero Suicide Alliance’s free 20-minute suicide awareness training where you will gain skills and confidence to help someone who may be considering suicide.

Ascension Trust – Suicide Prevention Training

The in-person, interactive 3-hour training session provides volunteers with the opportunity to reflect on the local and national statistics related to suicide and understand the importance of their role as Volunteers on Bridge Watch in supporting those people who may present at a bridge in distress. The session enables volunteers to learn about and to practice, active listening skills and to further understand how they will work as part of a team as well as what their roles and responsibilities are as volunteer. The session also gives the volunteers the chance to learn about the partner organisations involved and learn about and hear from some people who are involved in front line services.

Bridge Watch Suicide Intervention Training

The in -person 3 hour – suicide intervention training for a safer Thames equips you to intervene if you encounter a suicidal person. Suicide is the leading cause of death on the tidal Thames, so as a volunteer by the river you might come across someone showing signs of suicidal behaviour. This course will offer you the skills and confidence to initiate and manage a conversation with someone who appears to be feeling suicidal and connect them securely with further support. The interactive workshop is facilitated by The Listening Place, experts in providing active, compassionate, non-judgmental, face-to-face support for people who feel that life is no longer worth living. You will gain information and advice to give you the opportunity to prepare for the moment when you might need to support someone in distress.

By the end of the 6 hours – Participants will:

• Learn about the risks to human life on the river Thames.
• Explore how to show someone you want to support them.
• Review the dos and don’ts of supporting someone in distress.
• Practice techniques for active, non-judgmental listening
• Discuss myths and concerns about suicide.
• Receive advice on signposting to ongoing support.
• Roles and responsibilities of a Bridge Watch Volunteer
• Taking part in this course will mean participants are better equipped to intervene safely should they encounter someone in distress.
• Understand how to keep themselves safe and safeguarding guidelines.
• Know how to work as part of a team.