What is a Safety Plan?
A safety plan is like a mental health first aid kit. It helps you stay safe when you feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, or low.
A safety plan is about knowing:
- Who can support you—family, friends, professionals, or helplines.
- What helps you feel safe and calm—activities, places, or things that comfort you.
- How to make your environment safer—removing things that could harm you or asking for help.
- What steps you can take next—small actions that help you move forward.
You can make a safety plan for yourself or help someone else make one. It’s best to create your plan when you’re feeling okay not in crisis.
How to Make a Safety Plan
We recommend using these trusted and easy to access resources to guide you:
- Stayingsafe.net:
For step-by-step video guides, downloadable templates, and practical advice on making your own safety plan visit www.stayingsafe.net/ - Stay Alive App:
Download the free “Stay Alive” which will help you create and store your safety plan, find support, and access emergency contacts quickly.
Download on the Apple App Store
Download via Google Play Store
The information available via both of the provided links above can also be downloaded, printed off or shared.
Supporting Others: The LISTEN Approach
When you are supporting someone else, never underestimate the power of connection and compassion, or the importance of words and listening.
Sometimes, just being there and listening can make a big difference.
The Suffolk User Forum’s LISTEN model is a step-by-step guide for supporting someone in distress. It encourages open conversations, challenges stigma, and helps people create an action plan and access timely help. The LISTEN approach is for everyone—not just professionals—and can guide you through a conversation with anyone experiencing overwhelming feelings or suicidal thoughts.
Training for the Suffolk Workforce
Are you a working in Suffolk?
You can help save lives by learning about safety planning, whatever your role. Click on the blue drop down tabs below to learn more about the training and support available.