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The Prince and Princess of Wales have visited Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium today for the launch of a major new suicide prevention initiative. William and Kate are at the home of Everton on World Suicide Prevention Day for the launch of On Your Side, a new toolkit aimed at helping people across sport recognise warning signs, start conversations and support those who may be struggling. The toolkit has been developed by The Royal Foundation in partnership with the British Standards Institution and mental health charity Chasing the Stigma. Gary Speed connection behind Everton launch The Hill Dickinson was chosen as the venue because of the Gary Speed Memorial Talking Bench, which sits outside the stadium. Installed in memory of the former Everton captain, the bench was created as a place for supporters to sit, talk and listen. Speed died by suicide in November 2011, aged 42, and Tuesday would have been his 57th birthday. Everton in the Community is playing a role in today’s event, with chief executive Sue Gregory hosting a session involving representatives from across sport. More than 70 organisations are backing the initiative, while the FA, Premier League and British Cycling are among those committing to incorporate or prioritise its guidance. Team GB will also use the resource with athletes and staff. Sporting figures supporting On Your Side include Harry Kane, George Russell, Jill Scott, Dame Kelly Holmes, Sir Jason Kenny and Dame Laura Kenny. Former England striker Alan Shearer has also backed the initiative. Speed was a close friend and former Newcastle teammate, and Shearer described the decision to launch it at Everton as particularly poignant. “We can’t always know when somebody is struggling, but we can all be better at asking, listening and helping someone find the right support,” said Shearer. “You don’t have to have all the answers, but I hope everyone will support the toolkit.” The launch comes two days after what would have been Speed’s 57th birthday and on World Suicide Prevention Day, with his memorial bench providing a direct link between the initiative and Everton. For the latest Everton news throughout the season, follow our LIVE! Premier League 2026/27 News, Transfers, Updates & Viral Moments page.