Suicide is often a hidden subject with people often not knowing their loved one's true feelings until it is too late - but there is information available to help people spot the signs.

Rural Action Derbyshire will be bringing its Swadlincote Suicide Awareness Training to The Old Post Centre, in High Street, Newhall, on Friday, October 20.

The free training is supported by funding from Derbyshire County Council and this event is only for those working with people in Derbyshire.

The seminar is suitable for all, but bosses said it is particularly valuable for those whose work is more likely to bring them into contact with people at greater risk of suicide and self-harm.

This free half-day training seminar is aimed at enabling participants to examine their own attitudes, find out about and challenge the myths which surround suicide, discover the likely suicide risk factors and warning signs, find out how they might help someone at risk of suicide and self-harm and take advantage of the opportunity to network.

A spokesman for Rural Action Derbyshire said: "We believe that suicide is everybody's concern, and that individual tragedies can be prevented. We aim to increase awareness around the subject and to help remove the stigma which can be a barrier for those who need help and support in a time of crisis.

"Please note that there is a high demand for these courses. If you book a ticket and do not attend without cancelling your place, we may have to charge a cancellation fee."

Active participation in the seminar is encouraged with group work and open discussions.

Registration for the course is from 9am and training will start promptly at 9.30am and more information is available by e-mailing c.symonds@ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk

Generally they will only offer three places to each organisation per course but the team can work with employers to tailor the course for their staff and client group.

What is Rural Action Derbyshire?

Rural Action Derbyshire was previously known as the Derbyshire Rural Community Council and was established in 1924. It is an independent organisation and registered charity operating across the county.

The organisation aims to improve the life of those living and working in rural Derbyshire and its objectives are to support rural community development, address rural disadvantage and counter the effects of isolation, improve access to services for people living in rural communities and inform and challenge statutory service providers about the needs of rural communities.

It meets these aims and objectives by providing direct services to help people and groups in rural communities and raising awareness of the issues faced by rural communities.

Rural Action Derbyshire is one of 38 rural community councils in England and is a member of the Rural Community Action Network.