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Dr Sharon McDonnell

@sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social
107 followers 135 following 127 posts

Founder and Managing Director of Suicide Bereavement UK. Specialised in suicide bereavement research for over two decades. Personally bereaved by suicide.

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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
Silence Isn’t Always Golden: Reconnect, Recharge and Feel Inspired Again Hopefully see you at Suicide Bereavement UK's conference 16th Sept 2026 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden #sbukconf26 suicidebereavementuk.com/wp-content/u...
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
At this year’s Suicide Bereavement UK conference, I’ll share new findings from the National Suicide Bereavement Survey, including the voices of 300+ adults aged 60–84. Older adults have been unheard, unseen, unspoken for far too long. On 16 Sept, my team and I will give them a voice. #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 02/07/2026
PABBS training always brings people together with a shared purpose. There’s a quiet courage in the room — a willingness to learn and a commitment to support those bereaved by suicide. Delivering PABBS today at Gloucester Museum. Packs ready. #PABBS suicidebereavementuk.com
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
Liverpool hosts Suicide Bereavement UK's international conference for the first time. Global speakers. Attendees from 16 countries. 15 years of impact. If you work in postvention, this is the conference to attend. Register: suicidebereavementuk.com/wp-content/u... #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
Many people will be affected by the sad news of Caroline Flack’s brother’s death yesterday. Please take care of yourself. Help is at Hand booklet is available for anyone bereaved by suicide: HIAH_Booklet_2021_V5-1-2.pdf
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 12/05/2026
This year at Suicide Bereavement UK's 15th international conference I’ll share new findings on older adults & those long‑term bereaved. Findings are from the largest sample of older-adults bereaved by suicide internationally. For more info: suicidebereavementuk.com/suicide-bere... #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 12/05/2026
This year at Suicide Bereavement UK's conference I’ll share new findings on older adults & those long‑term bereaved. Findings are from the largest sample of older-adults bereaved by suicide internationally For more info and to register: ssuicidebereavementuk.com/conference #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 08/05/2026
'In every job that must be done there is some fun.' Mary Poppins
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 07/05/2026
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
I’m presenting findings for the first time about people aged 65–84 bereaved by suicide - the largest dataset of its kind internationally. If you work in postvention, suicide prevention, policy or elder care, this conference is relevant to you. 4049_SBUK_Conference_2026_flyer_online_v2.pdf
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 31/03/2026
Thinking of exhibiting at Suicide Bereavement UK’s International Conference? Need to book soon as majority of tables are booked. A great chance to showcase your work, connect with professionals, and raise your organisation’s visibility. suicidebereavementuk.com #sbukconf26 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 17/03/2026
Delighted that my friend and colleague Pete Johnson from Plattform will speak at Suicide Bereavement UK's international conference, talking about the impact of losing his mother to suicide when he was 15 months old suicidebereavementuk.com #sbukconf26 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 16/03/2026
Academics: Share your suicide prevention/postvention research at Suicide Bereavement UK’s International Conference. Reach practitioners, policymakers & people with lived experience across 16 countries. Poster submissions open now. suicidebereavementuk.com #sbukconf26 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 09/03/2026
Thrilled to announce Dr Nikki Jamieson (Australia), a leading expert in moral injury, will speak at Suicide Bereavement UK's 15th International Conference on 16 Sept Not to be missed. Early bird tickets until 31 Mar 4049_SBUK_Conference_2026_flyer_online_v2.pdf #sbukconf26 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 04/03/2026
Suicide Bereavement UK’s conference flyer is now live. Theme: “Silence Isn’t Always Golden.” 3 international speakers Early bird until 31st March Please take a look and share with anyone who may be interested suicidebereavementuk.com/conference #SBUKConf26 #SilenceIsntAlwaysGolden
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 27/02/2026
Excited for the weekend 🙂
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 26/02/2026
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 17/02/2026
FREE Suicide Prevention RTS2 Training – Durham For emergency services in NE & North Cumbria. Practical guidance on responding to someone in crisis, taught by an ex‑police crisis negotiator + mental health professional. 20 March • Only 10 places left Book: paul.higham@suicidebereavementuk.com
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 09/02/2026
FREE Suicide Prevention Training for Emergency Services in NE & North Cumbria. For police, fire, ambulance & coastguards only in above region DATES 20 Mar (Durham) 26 Mar (Cumbria) Only 10 places left, to register interest email: paul.higham@suicidebereavementuk.com
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 30/01/2026
Thrilled by number of registrations to attend Suicide Bereavement UK's international conference. Delegates across UK + Australia, USA, Botswana, Ghana, Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Jersey etc already registered. Info about conference and to register suicidebereavementuk.com/suicide-bere...
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 27/01/2026
🚨 LAST CHANCE FREE, face2face Responding to Suicide (RTS1) training – Newcastle ⚠️ Emergency services personnel only 📅 12 Feb, Byker Community Fire Station ⏳ Only 7 places left ℹ️ More info: suicidebereavementuk.com Contact: paul.higham@suicidebereavementuk.com Need to be quick!
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 23/01/2026
Busy week at Suicide Bereavement UK delivering evidence-based, face2face suicide bereavement training nationwide; from universities, health professionals to the fire service. Building confidence to support those bereaved by suicide. Learn more + 300 testimonials: suicidebereavementuk.com #PABBS #RTS
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 20/01/2026
Honoured to present at the Operation Blue Monday conference in Newcastle hosted by Northumbria police and North East and Northumbria NHS Trust. I spoke on the often-overlooked impact on emergency service professionals responding to suicide, and how Suicide Bereavement UK train frontline staff
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 05/01/2026
Been informed that my @manchester.ac.uk university honorary contract has been extended for another 3yrs. This prompted me to read a post I wrote 5yrs ago, reflecting on that transition. I thought I’d share in case others are on a similar journey. suicidebereavementuk.com/blog/publicl...
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 05/01/2026
Back at work after Christmas, but surrounded by nature 🌿 Birds, squirrels, and my daily robin visitor already saying hello ❤️ A lovely way to start the year. Wishing you all a happy New Year. x
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 31/12/2025
Is there someone you care about—a family member, friend, or colleague—who could use a hug today? Even if they don’t need it, they’ll likely appreciate it. Who are you going to hug today?
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 22/12/2025
Presenting at Operation Blue Monday Conference 19 Jan 2026. Will share frontline insights on responding to suicide in emergency services & introducing evidence-based, CPD-accredited 'Responding To Suicide' training by Suicide Bereavement UK, aligned with the Suicide & the Workplace British Standard
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Reposted by Dr Sharon McDonnell
Hazel Marzetti @hazelmarzetti.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
🌈 Do you know anyone passionate about researching LGBTQ+ suicide, suicide prevention and suicide bereavement, experienced in qualitative methods, and looking for work? Send them my way because I'm recruiting for a post-doctoral research fellow! elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/Candid...
elxw.fa.em3.oraclecloud.com
Research Fellow (Rain within the Rainbow)
Post-doctoral Research Fellow (Rain Within the Rainbow) working on the Rain Within the Rainbow: Understanding LGBTQ+ suicide and suicide prevention in the UK through the life course project using qual...
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Reposted by Dr Sharon McDonnell
The Mental Elf @thementalelf.bsky.social · 18/12/2025
Key finding: 60% of depression cases occurred in people with no affected close relatives. Family history matters, but most people who develop mental health conditions have no affected relatives. Genetics, environment, and life experiences all play a role. Read the blog: buff.ly/u6BpgpR
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Reposted by Dr Sharon McDonnell
Caroline Roodhouse @daddyblackbird.bsky.social · 21/12/2025
After months of sharing Daddy Blackbird, I’m closing the chapters of HISTORY and HORROR - for now - and turning toward HOPE. The blackbird sings after the storm. In 2026, so will this story 💛 Come with me, read more on Substack 📚 #DaddyBlackbird #SuicideLoss #Hope 🐦‍⬛
open.substack.com
Hope beyond the horror
Daddy Blackbird #35
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 19/12/2025
Delighted to welcome the new BSI Standard: Suicide and the Workplace. Suicide Bereavement UK pledges to be an early adopter, helping workplaces prevent suicide & support those affected. www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insigh... #hope #suicideprevention #BSI #workplace #postvention #suicidebereavement
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 17/12/2025
Thinking of those who may be struggling right now. Help is available, and there are people and organisations who care. Please reach out. The following link provides information about support in your area x hubofhope.co.uk Image: charlie Mackesy
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 16/12/2025
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 15/12/2025
I love this positive message.
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 15/12/2025
Limited places: PABBS Training Due to high demand, Suicide Bereavement UK is delivering PABBS evidence-based suicide bereavement training on 17th Sept 2026 (day after the conference). ⚠️ Paid course - Only 20 places – conference delegates ONLY. Contact paul.higham@suicidebereavementuk.com
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
Sometimes we need to be reminded of this. Hope this message is helpful to those who are questioning/doubting themselves. Keep going, keep believing x
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 11/12/2025
Beautiful sky this morning ❤️
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 09/12/2025
Suicide Bereavement UK are hosting their 15th International Hybrid Conference in Liverpool — the iconic city of The Beatles. Expect a warm northern welcome & the chance to experience a place rich in culture & history. We hope to see you there More info suicidebereavementuk.com/suicide-bere...
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 01/12/2025
I’ve specialised in suicide bereavement research for 26 yrs. Attending @SBUK’s 15th international conference doesn’t just offer world-class learning — it gives access to many of my national & international contacts in this field. Early-bird tickets: suicidebereavementuk/conference #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 27/11/2025
We’ve already received some fantastic poster abstracts for Suicide Bereavement UK’s International Conference (16 Sept 2026) — including many from overseas, including Australia. This event is a great platform for academics to share impactful work. #sbukconf26 suicidebereavementuk.com/conference
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 25/11/2025
Wise words.
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
Been extremely busy lately — I've delivered PABBS training in Gibraltar, examined a PhD at Uni of Sunderland, running PABBS training in London tomorrow (informed by @nihr.bsky.social funded work at @manchester.ac.uk Tuesday I fly to Belfast to deliver a keynote in Belfast. Meaningful work.
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 14/11/2025
I honestly couldn't eat these. How about you?
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 13/11/2025
Sometimes we forget this, myself included!
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 13/11/2025
SAVE THE DATE: 16th September 2026 We’re thrilled to announce Suicide Bereavement UK’s 15th international hybrid conference! Theme: Suicide Bereavement: Silence Isn’t Always Golden 📍 Titanic Hotel, Liverpool (and online) 🕘 9am – 4:30pm #sbukconf26 #LiverpoolEvents
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 11/11/2025
SAVE THE DATE: On 16th Sept 2026, we’re bringing the world together in LIVERPOOL. The city of The Beatles - for Suicide Bereavement UK's 15th International hybrid conference! Let’s connect, share knowledge, do some sight seeing, have some fun, & make a difference. 🙂 Info to follow soon #sbukconf26
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 11/11/2025
Anyone remember these? Childhood advent calendars weren’t about chocolate—they revealed tiny festive pictures. I shared turns with my brother and sister, and even now I remember the joy of opening my window.
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Dr Sharon McDonnell @sharonmcdonnell.bsky.social · 08/11/2025
Just lovely
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