The landmarks will join buildings across Essex in lighting up green, remembering those who have lost their lives to suicide while sending a message of hope that support is available and that no one has to struggle alone.
The initiative is part of the Let's Talk About Suicide Essex campaign, led by NHS Essex and delivered in partnership with Basildon and Brentwood Mind and organisations across the county. The campaign aims to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations about mental health and give people the confidence to support someone who may be struggling.
Latest figures show that 145 people died by suspected suicide across Greater Essex in 2025. Since April 2021 to December 2025, four in every five suspected suicides were men, reflecting the national picture and highlighting the importance of encouraging people to talk openly about their mental health, seek support when needed and look out for one another. With suicide being one of the leading causes of death among young adults, raising awareness and helping people feel confident to start supportive conversations has never been more important.
As part of this year's campaign, residents are being encouraged to complete the free 20-minute online suicide awareness training available through the Let's Talk About Suicide Essex website. The training teaches people how to recognise warning signs, start a conversation and help someone access the right support.
Standing together as a community
Cllr David King, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection, said: "Suicide affects people from all walks of life and leaves a lasting impact on families, friends and communities. No one should ever feel they have to struggle alone, and there is absolutely no shame in reaching out for help if you need it.
"By lighting up Colchester Castle and the Town Hall green, we're standing with everyone who has been affected by suicide and showing our support for those who may be struggling.
"We can all play a part in looking out for one another. Sometimes it's the smallest gesture, a conversation, a check-in or simply letting someone know you're there for them, that can make a real difference. I'd encourage anyone who can spare 20 minutes to take the free training and feel more confident recognising when someone might need support and knowing how to help."
Dr Matthew Sweeting, Executive Medical Director at NHS Essex, said: "Every life lost to suicide is one too many. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, friends and a community whose lives are changed forever.
"We all have a role to play in preventing suicide. You don't need to be a healthcare professional to help someone who may be struggling. By taking just 20 minutes to complete the free Let's Talk About Suicide Essex training, you can learn how to spot the warning signs, start a conversation and signpost someone to support. That one conversation could help save a life.
"Since the campaign launched, more than 5,000 people across Essex have completed the free training, helping to create more suicide-aware communities across the county. This World Suicide Prevention Day, we're encouraging even more people to take part because the more people who know what to look for and how to respond, the more lives we have the potential to save."
Take the free 20-minute suicide awareness training
The free online training is available to anyone aged 16 and over and can be completed at a time that suits them. Based on the See, Say, Signpost approach, it helps people recognise when someone may be at risk, start a supportive conversation and guide them towards appropriate help.
To complete the free training and find out more about suicide prevention in Essex, visit the Let's Talk About Suicide Essex website.