SUICIDE OR SURVIVE

The Anchor Programme (formerly known as the Supporters Programme)

What is the Anchor Programme?

This programme was formerly known as the Supporters Programme. This programme teaches supporters practical skills they can use to support others, it gives information on what supports are available and how they can be accessed and teaches practical ways of looking after your own mental health.

Why The Anchor Programme?

SOS recognises and understands that supporting someone who is struggling with their mental health can be challenging. The Anchor Programme is for people supporting family members, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, people in their community and others who are struggling with their mental health. It is the first of its kind in Ireland.

Attending The Anchor Programme

SOS offers 2 types of Anchor Programmes

1. The Anchor Programme for those supporting a loved one, on a personal basis
2. The Anchor Programme for those working or volunteering in a supporting role

Both programmes are offered online and in person. Our 8 hour online programme is held over 2-3 hours, once a week, over 3 consecutive weeks. Our in person programme is a 1 day programme held from 9.30am – 4.00pm.

Thanks to the National Office for Suicide Prevention and the amazing people all over the country who fundraise for us, this programme is offered at a significantly reduced price. Our workshops are open to anyone over 18 living on the island of Ireland.

Upcoming Anchor Programme 2026 Dates:

Anchor Programme for People Supporting Loved Ones – 23rd and 30th September – 9am to 1pm (Online) – Open Programme
Anchor for Workers and Volunteers – Barnardos – 28^th and 29^th September (Closed Programme)
Anchor Programme for Workers- Rehab Care – 27^th and 28^th October (Closed Programme)
Anchor Programme for People Supporting Loved Ones – 4th and 11th November – 9am to 1pm (Online) – Open Programme
Anchor Programme for Workers – FSN – 12^th November (Closed Programme)
Anchor Programme for Workers and Volunteers – 9th and 16th November – 9am to 1pm (Online) – Open Programme
Anchor Programme for Workers – EVE – 17^th and 18^th November (Closed Programme)
Anchor Programme for Workers – EVE 25^th and 26^th November (Closed Programme)

To attend one of our Anchor Programmes, check out our Programmes Calendar below.

Programmes Calendar

The Anchor Programme is in line with Strategic Goal 2 Action 2.3.3 of Connecting for Life

This programme is run to the highest standards of practice and service delivery and is underpinned by an evaluation framework as required by Connecting for Life.
For Information on the National Suicide Prevention Strategy of Ireland click on the Connecting for Life Logo