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Taxi drivers in Greater Manchester are being taught this one thing that could save liveshttps://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk ... g-31721119'We spend time with people in those quiet in-between moments. I’ve had passengers who were just not themselves'Greater Manchester is home to over 18,500 licensed taxi and private hire drivers.
With thousands of daily interactions with people across the region, in all sorts of situations, each one is an opportunity to make a difference. Now, they're being taught one thing that could save lives - whether its with their regular customers or passengers they will only see once.
The drivers are now being encouraged to complete a short, free online course that could help spot the signs someone is struggling with their mental health.
With more than 200 lives lost to suicide in the region each year, those everyday interactions can sometimes be the moments when someone needs support the most.
Licensing services and NHS Greater Manchester are working together to promote the free suicide awareness training course developed specifically for the trade by the Zero Suicide Alliance.
Rob Berrisford, 41, has been driving for 20 years, starting out in private hire before switching to a Hackney cab three years ago.
Rob mostly works in the Salford borough, doing daytime shifts on the rank with the occasional night job.
He said: “I’ve built up a base of regulars. People who head out at night and get a taxi back in the morning, or those who take the bus into town but like a cab home.
"I also get people doing their food shop who just want a lift back with their shopping. It’s a close-knit community, and good service matters.
Offering a hand, being polite, and taking the time to chat - that’s what keeps people coming back.”
Signing up for the suicide prevention awareness training was a chance to make a difference in a job connecting him to people from all walks of life.
“I think we all need to be more aware and more present. We’re all too often glued to our phones and not really paying attention”, the dad-of-three says.
“These days, people are under a lot of pressure - financially, emotionally, and mentally. We don’t always notice it because we’re caught up in our own thoughts and situations.
"That lack of interaction can really take a toll on someone who’s struggling.”
The training has already changed how Rob sees his job: “It’s mostly common sense, but it gives you the confidence to act if something feels off.
"It reminded me that even a small conversation can mean a lot to someone who’s having a tough time.”
He continued: "We spend time with people in those quiet in-between moments. I’ve had passengers who were quiet, withdrawn and just not themselves.
"I’ve always wanted people to leave my cab feeling better than when they got in. A small chat and a smile might be enough to steer them in a better direction, or at least help them feel seen."
Rob’s had moments where he sensed someone might be struggling. “Not in a big dramatic way, but you can tell," he explained.
"Now I feel more confident to respond, even if it’s just keeping a conversation going or offering a bit of reassurance. It’s not always about fixing things, just showing you care.”
His message to other drivers is simple: “Do it. It only takes ten minutes - you’ll spend that scrolling on your phone without thinking.
"You never know when you might be the one in the right place at the right time to help someone. And surely that’s worth it”.
David Lawrie, director of the National Private Hire and Taxi Association, said: "Our industry could be considered an extension of the emergency services, as we play a vital role in supporting people, often in difficult situations.
"We regularly transport individuals of all ages, some of whom may have hidden vulnerabilities, including mental health issues, that only become clear during a conversation.
“For many people, taxi and private hire drivers can be their main form of social contact, which puts us in a unique position to spot any issues and point people towards the right support.
"We fully welcome this initiative as an extension of the safeguarding training already in place for all drivers. It’s free and shows our support for both the NHS and our communities."
The training takes just 10 minutes, is available online, and includes a certificate of completion. It helps drivers learn how to:
- Spot warning signs
- Ask supportive, direct questions
- Start a conversation with someone who may be in distress
- Signpost to further support
Take the training here
http://www.zerosuicidealliance.com/suic ... ining-taxi.
While this training has been tailored for taxi and private hire drivers, anyone can take suicide awareness training.
The Zero Suicide Alliance also offers general training modules for the public, professionals, and organisations.
Explore the full range of training here.
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