Episode description:

In this deeply impactful final episode of the Career Unlocked series, Alex sits down with Rose Rowkins, a passionate and experienced Suicide Prevention Trainer. Rose shares her journey from growing up in North West London to becoming a leading advocate for suicide prevention. Throughout the conversation, Rose opens up about her career path, which includes working as a Samaritans volunteer, training prisoners in listening skills, and creating the innovative "Talking about Suicide: 10 Tools" (TAS10) session. Rose also discusses the emotional challenges of her work, the importance of structured training and her commitment to making suicide prevention everyone’s business. Whether you’re interested in mental health, advocacy or simply want to be a better support to those around you, this episode is a must-listen.

Key points discussed:

• Rose’s early life in North West London and how it shaped her love for diverse communities
• Her early career experiences, including volunteering with Samaritans and training in prisons
• The development and impact of the TAS10 session and its importance in suicide prevention
• Insights into the misconceptions and myths around suicide and how to approach sensitive conversations
• Rose’s unique approach to building trust and creating safe spaces in her work
• The challenges and rewards of balancing a demanding career with family life
• The importance of structured training in suicide prevention and Rose’s role in shaping educational programmes
• How personal interests like yoga, singing and travel contribute to Rose’s wellbeing and effectiveness at work
• Practical tools for organisations to integrate wellbeing and suicide prevention into their workplace culture
• Rose’s advice for individuals who are concerned about someone in crisis and how to approach the subject of suicide

Resources and links:

• Connect with Rose: LinkedIn
• Start the Conversation: Website
• Samaritans: Website
• Talking about Suicide: 10 Tools (TAS10): Website

Stay up to date with us on Instagram and LinkedIn:

• Favourite Positions Podcast Instagram
• Alex Young on LinkedIn

As always, please reach out and let us know how you’re finding the series and feel free to send us any suggestions for topics you’d like us to explore in future episodes! Thank you for listening and supporting the platform. We're so grateful that you're here.