Download document: Guidance on reporting suicide for broadcast media
766.0 kb - PDF
The wide reach of broadcast material, including online, as well as the diverse audience it attracts, makes responsible approaches to covering suicide particularly important.
Broadcasters face some unique challenges when reporting on suicide. For instance, producing high quality, live, reports to camera when the subject matter is clearly very sensitive and carries a risk of contagion. Our guidance offers some practical advice on how to avoid the risks and produce safe and informed coverage.
Suicide is a really difficult topic to get right and the training really helped the team forge a greater understanding of the need to take a responsible approach. Talking through the issues undoubtedly also helped grow confidence in portraying suicide and its effects in a sensitive way
Will Banks, Assistant Editor, BBC Radio Oxford
Download our guidance for advice on how to safely cover suicide and self-harm in broadcast media.
Download document: Guidance on reporting suicide for broadcast media for Ireland
766.0 kb - PDF
Samaritans’ media advice team is available to support journalists and to answer questions relating to coverage of suicide at [email protected]
Providing information on how to contact organisations where people can find support, including helpline numbers, can encourage people who are struggling and may be experiencing suicidal thoughts to seek help. This could save lives. The below video can be embedded in articles and other content, or alternatively use our helpline details listed below.
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at [email protected], or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.