Residents in Solihull are being encouraged to take part in free mental health training following World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September.

The Orange Button scheme teaches people how to have supportive conversations with those struggling with their mental health and how to signpost them to appropriate support services.

The free online training is available twice a month and is open to anyone living or working in Birmingham and Solihull.

Those who complete the course receive an orange button to wear, showing they have the skills and knowledge to support people who may be experiencing mental health difficulties.

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) says hundreds of people have already become Orange Button wearers, helping to build a network of support across the area.

Cllr Tony Dicicco, cabinet member for public health at SMBC, said: "The Orange Button scheme is a great way for people to help support people in need.

"Hundreds of people are now Orange Button wearers, helping to grow a community across Solihull and Birmingham.

"By completing the training, you could make a really positive difference with the people you live and work with."

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People in Birmingham and Solihull experiencing poor mental health can also access free support by texting SPACE to 85258.

The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects users with a trained mental health professional who can offer support and guidance.

The Orange Button training is delivered by Every Life Matters.

More information about the scheme and upcoming training sessions is available through SMBC's website.