Standing Together Against Breast Cancer: Wear it Pink Day

Breast cancer affects millions of lives every year and for many, the battle is ongoing. Wear it Pink Day, is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for breast cancer research. On this day, communities come together, united by the color pink, to show support and solidarity with those affected by this disease.

The Electrical Industries Charity is proud to support Wear it Pink Day. We understand that breast cancer touches many lives within our industry and we are committed to being part of the solution. This day is not just about wearing pink; it’s about taking action. The funds raised through Wear it Pink go directly towards research, prevention and treatments that can save lives.

Breast cancer can be a frightening and isolating experience, but no one should face it alone. Wear it Pink Day is a powerful reminder that support is out ther, and that together, we can make a difference. Whether you’re donating, participating in fundraising activities or simply wearing pink to spark conversations, your involvement helps drive progress in the fight against breast cancer.

At EIC, we are dedicated to providing support to those within our industry who are impacted by breast cancer. From offering emotional and practical support to ensuring access to the right resources and information, we are here to help. Our community is stronger when we stand together, and Wear it Pink Day is an opportunity to show that strength.

We encourage everyone to get involved – wear something pink, organise a fundraising event or simply share information to help spread awareness. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger effort to end breast cancer for good.

Let’s turn our workplaces and communities pink today (18 October) and show that we are united in the fight against breast cancer. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

https://breastcancernow.org/wear-it-pink/

#WearItPink #BreastCancerAwareness #EICares #UnitedInPink

Honouring Lives Lost Too Soon: Baby Loss Awareness Week

Every year, Baby Loss Awareness Week (9 – 15 October) offers a dedicated time to honour the memory of babies who have sadly passed away during pregnancy or infancy. This week serves as a crucial reminder of the silent grief that many families endure and provides a space for collective mourning, reflection, and awareness.

The experience of losing a baby is a profoundly isolating and heartbreaking journey. For many, it’s a pain that is carried quietly, often unspoken but always present. Baby Loss Awareness Week is about breaking that silence—offering support, understanding and a voice to those who have been touched by this tragedy.

During this week, the Electrical Industries Charity stands with families and individuals in our community who have been affected. We are committed to raising awareness and promoting conversations that can lead to healing and change. One way we do this is by participating in the Wave of Light on 15 October, where people around the world light candles in memory of babies who have passed. This global gesture is a powerful symbol of unity and remembrance.

But beyond the symbolism, we also aim to support those in need through practical means. Whether it’s offering counselling, providing financial assistance or simply being a listening ear, the EIC is here to help our community navigate through the challenges.

We encourage everyone to take part in this week by sharing resources, participating in events and most importantly, reaching out to those who may be silently grieving. Together, we can create a community where no one feels alone in their loss.

If you or someone you know needs support during Baby Loss Awareness Week, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Your voice and your story matter and we are here to listen.

You can also find support and resources here – https://www.babyloss-awareness.org/organisations/

We are thrilled to announce the success of our recent zipline challenge across Glasgow’s stunning cityscape! Thanks to the incredible support and generosity of our participants and donors, we have raised over £21,000 to help fund the essential work of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC).

The challenge saw some of our team, along with supporters from the electrical industry, take a leap of faith – literally! Participants zipped 100 feet above the ground and soared 1245 feet across the city, launching from a crane beside the iconic Glasgow Riverside Museum. It was an exhilarating experience, all in the name of supporting those in our industry who need it most.

Grace, Director of Welfare at the EIC, reflected on the day’s impact:
“The zipline event wasn’t just a fun and exciting challenge; it was a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity of our community. The money raised will go a long way in providing practical support to those in need within the electrical industry.”

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who took part, supported and donated. Your contributions are making a direct impact on the lives of individuals and families in the electrical sector.

If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved in one of our challenge for a causes or fundraising in general visit out website – https://electricalcharity.org/get-involved-with-the-eic/

Together, we are helping to create a brighter future for those in our industry.

Suicide Prevention is not just for September…..

September is National Suicide Prevention Month. With the month coming to an end, we should remind ourselves that suicide prevention doesn’t end with the observation. It is an ongoing effort that should be practiced every day of the year.

More than 720,000 people die by suicide every year. For each suicide, there are an estimated 20 suicide attempts.

Suicide can occur at any stage of life and in all regions of the world. In 2021, suicide was the third leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds globally, and 73% of all suicides happened in low- and middle-income countries.

While the link between suicide and mental health conditions (in particular, depression and alcohol use disorders) and a previous suicide attempt is well established in high-income countries, many suicides happen impulsively in moments of crisis. Further risk factors for suicide include experience of loss, loneliness, discrimination, relationship dispute, financial problems, chronic pain and illness, violence, abuse, and conflict or other humanitarian emergencies.

Stigma around mental health conditions and suicide means many people thinking about suicide do not seek help. Suicides and suicide attempts have a ripple effect that impacts on families, friends, colleagues, communities and societies.

What can be done do to support someone who is in crisis?

We know how difficult conversations can be, especially when someone tells us they are experiencing suicidal thoughts or want to end their life.

Hearing ‘I am feeling suicidal’ can be just as scary for the listener as for the person voicing this.

It takes a lot of courage to tell someone that you are having thoughts of ending your life. It could be the first time this has ever been said out loud and for this reason, it is so important to remain calm and non-judgement if ever someone tells you how they are feeling.

You may not be a counsellor, but you can provide a safe space for that person to share and you have the power to signpost into support.

You may consider taking the following steps:

Let them know that you care about them and they aren’t alone.
Empathise with them. Be aware you don’t know exactly how they feel. You could say something like, ‘I can’t imagine how painful this is for you, but I would like to try to understand.’

Ask them if they have a plan for ending their life and if they say yes, ask them what they are planning. This information can be passed onto the relevant authority and will help to direct the support offered.

Make sure someone is with them if they’re in immediate danger.
Encourage and help them to get professional help.
Make sure you get support after and look after yourself.

If you are ever concerned that someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or anyone else, call 999 and report your concerns.

What can the EIC do?

The EIC are very proud to offer an efficient and supportive service to our industry during times of adversity. We work on a short-term, high impact basis and look to ensure that our clients receive the support they need in order to achieve the best possible outcome.

When you contact the EIC, you can expect to be assigned a Case Manager, who will oversee your journey with us. We work with you to create a support plan, which may include mental health support sessions, reaching out to other professionals and organisations and ensuring that you have robust support in place.

The team are non-judgemental and empathetic, always offering a safe space and a listening ear if you are struggling.

Our helpline operates from 9am – 5pm and is monitored by the Welfare team. It is open to anyone within the electrical and energy sector for advice and guidance, as well as direct support from the EIC. You can also access support by emailing support@electricalcharity.org or accessing our online application, available on our website.

Please note: The EIC are not a crisis service and in the instance that crisis is identified, we will action the necessary steps to ensure that support is locally implemented.

Looking after Each Other – Looking after Ourselves

These topics are of the utmost importance when it comes to mental health. However far too often, we consider them to be opposing goals. People can be led to believe that self-care is selfish – or only achievable through shutting out the needs of others. Meanwhile people can also run themselves ragged trying to look after others while allowing their own mental health to deteriorate,

The simple fact is, we cannot look after others properly unless we are also looking after ourselves. This involves finding a balance between offering support and maintaining one’s boundaries. Finding this balance requires a lot of self-reflection and counselling is the best way to help people discover their inner strengths and resources.

Below is a list of resources where support can be found for both yourselves and others. They offer advice, a listening ear and referrals so you can seek the necessary support for all.

Get Support – The Mix

The Mix is the UK’s leading support service for young people. We are here to help you take on any challenge you’re facing – from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. Talk to us via our online community, on social or our counselling service. Home – Mind

Mind offers help and support to those who need it most. There’s more than 100 local Minds across England and Wales, offering specialised support and care based on the needs of their communities. Family Action: Supporting families at every age and stage of life (family-action.org.uk)

Family Action is an award-winning national charity working from the heart of local communities across England and Wales. We’ve been supporting people through change, challenge and crisis for over 150 years. Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope

The Hub of Hope is the UK’s leading mental health support database. It is provided by national mental health charity, Chasing the Stigma, and brings local, national, peer, community, charity, private and NHS mental health support and services together in one place for the first time. Homepage | Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) (thecalmzone.net)

CALM is the suicide prevention charity on a mission to help people end their misery, not their lives.

R;pple

R;pple is an interceptive tool designed to present a visual prompt when a person searches for harmful keywords or phrases relating to the topic of self-harm or suicide. These phrases include any words or terminology which have been identified as displaying potentially damaging online content. Our intervention technique catches people when they are most vulnerable and helps redirect them to immediate support sources.

https://www.ripplesuicideprevention.com/resources/support

SFA Lite

This short programme provides participants with the foundational knowledge needed to effectively intervene in situations where someone may be contemplating suicide.

Designed for individuals across various professions and community roles, this programme equips you with the tools to recognise the signs of suicide, initiate life-saving conversations, and connect a person having thoughts of suicide with appropriate resources. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, educator, HR personnel, or concerned community member, this programme empowers you to make a real difference.

Part 1: Understanding the Foundations of Suicide Prevention

Introduction and Programme Overview: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the programme’s objectives and structure.
Working with Societal Attitudes Toward Suicide: Explore how societal views impact individuals with thoughts of suicide, and shape prevention strategies.
How Personal Values Influence Suicide Thoughts: Discover the link between an individual’s values and the development of suicide ideation.
The Hidden Toll®: Understand the stigma surrounding suicide and the experiences of survivors who have been bereaved by suicide.
The Ripple Effect®: Delve into how suicide affects not just the individual, but the wider community, creating a ripple of impact.
Understanding Thoughts of Suicide and Suicide Behaviour: Learn about the various causes of thoughts of suicide and the differences between intention and outcome in suicide behaviour.
Intention vs. Outcome of Behaviour®: Examine the critical distinctions between a person’s intentions and the outcomes of their actions.
Exploring the Causes of Suicide Ideation: Gain insights into the complex and varied causes that can lead to suicide thoughts.
‘I’m Really Glad You Told Me’®: Watch a powerful short film featuring a real-life case study of someone who contemplated suicide and was persuaded to choose life.

Part 2: Practical Strategies for Suicide Intervention an Self-Care

The Suicide Safety Guide: Learn the 3-Step Model designed to equip Suicide First Aiders® with essential skills.
- Step 1 – Recognising Suicide Feelings: Master the ability to identify when someone is thinking about suicide and ask the right, life-saving questions
- Step 2 – Exploring and Understanding Options: Develop skills to engage in meaningful conversations that explore the person’s options and offer hope.
- Step 3 – Helping the person with thoughts of suicide cope – Using an evidence-based approach to develop a suicide safety plan.
Self-care for Suicide First Aiders® – Understand the importance of self-care and how to manage the emotional impact of working with those affected by suicide.

For more information visit their website: https://suicidefirstaid.uk/sfa-lite/

Rexel Golf Day Raises Over £3,500 for the Electrical Industries Charity

On 7 and 8 of August, Rexel successfully hosted their annual Golf Championship day in Scotland. Held at Scotscraig Golf Club, the golf day attracted key figures from across the industry, providing an opportunity for networking, relaxation and, most importantly, charitable fundraising. Rexel’s contractors from both Scotland and Northern Ireland came together to participate in a day filled with friendly competition.

The Electrical Industries Charity was in attendance, with representatives sharing insights into the charity’s role in providing essential services, such as mental health support, financial assistance and occupational health services, to individuals and families across the sector. The funds raised will directly contribute to these services, helping those in need during challenging times.

During the event there were various fund generating initiatives that helped raise over £3,500 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC).

Grace Ellis, Director of Welfare for the Electrical Industries Charity, who attended the event, expressed her gratitude:

“We are truly grateful to Rexel and everyone who participated in this fantastic event. The generosity and support shown by the contractors from Scotland and Northern Ireland will make a real difference in the lives of those facing hardship in our industry. The £3,500 raised will go a long way in helping us continue our work in providing essential welfare services for those in need. Thank you to Rexel for hosting such a successful day and to everyone who contributed to this meaningful cause.”

On 5 September Edmundson Electrical hosted a successful charity golf day in the South West, raising over £2,000 in support of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). The event brought together contractors and partners from across the region, showcasing a shared commitment to supporting those in the electrical and energy industries who are facing challenging circumstances.

Held at Woodbury Park golf club in Exeter, the day featured a mix of friendly competition and networking opportunities, with industry professionals gathering to relax and contribute to a worthy cause. The funds raised will directly benefit the EIC, enabling them to continue providing critical services, including mental health support, financial assistance, and occupational health services.

Kate Adamczyk, Director of Marketing, Business Development, and Events at the EIC, attended the event and expressed her appreciation:
“It was wonderful to meet so many people from across the South West region and share the important work the Electrical Industries Charity does for those in need. We’re truly grateful for the generosity shown by all who participated. Events like these not only raise essential funds but also allow us to connect with individuals who may need our support in the future. Thank you to Edmundson Electrical and everyone who helped make this day such a success.”

The funds raised will help the EIC continue its vital work in supporting the well-being of those in the electrical and energy sectors, ensuring they have access to the resources they need during difficult times.

For more information about the Electrical Industries Charity and how to get involved in future fundraising events, please visit www.electricalcharity.org.

As World Suicide Prevention Day draws near – we want to take a moment to address a critical issue that affects our community: the stigma of asking for help that sadly leads far too many people to take their own lives.

The most recently released data from the Office for National Statistics reports that in 2022, there were 6,607 deaths by suicide registered in the UK. That same year the Samaritans volunteers responded to a call for help every 10 seconds.

What we can understand from these numbers is just how many people are struggling with suicidal thoughts.

In the electrical industry, we are no strangers to challenges; demands on our mental and emotional well-being can be substantial. Historically, engaging with emotional distress is something we have been taught to shy away from. We will ensure physical safety on job sites but wilfully overlook the signs that someone is struggling with their mental health. We want to help change this.

Why It Matters:

Studies have shown that high-stress professions, like ours, can contribute to mental health struggles. The stigma around mental health often prevents many from seeking the help they need and prevents those around us from feeling able to offer it. We believe that the first step to changing the culture is by talking about it and the only way to facilitate this discussion is to hold a safe space for people to feel heard and cared for.

This can often be extremely challenging as such topics can feel dangerous and triggering – a first step could be to speak with your GP, counselor or or use one of the many services and helplines we have listed below.

You Are Not Alone:

Samaritans is a listening service and emotional support to anyone about any issue, with a special focus on suicidal feelings. They are open all day, every day. You can call the helpline for free on 116 123 or email atjo@samaritans.org.

Papyrusis a confidential support and advice service for children and young people under the age of 35 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, or anyone concerned that a young person could be thinking about suicide. The helpline number is 0800 068 4141. You can also text them on 077862 09697, or emailpat@papyrus-uk.org.

Maytree is an organisation that offers telephone support to over 18’s in suicidal crisis. You can contact them 24/7 on 020 7263 7070 and can leave a message if there is no one to answer your call.

My Black Dog is a charity run by volunteers who all have personal experience of dealing with suicide, self-harm, depression, and mental illness. This is an organisation for those who are over the age of 18. You can chat online to a volunteer Monday-Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 10am-3pm and Sunday 10am-3pm and 7-10pm. Their website is https://www.myblackdog.co/

If you would rather not speak on the phone, you can contact SHOUT via text on 85258 with the word ‘SHOUT’.

CALM offers help, information, and advice to anyone. They deal with issues such as abuse, bullying, mental health, relationships, suicide, and self-harm. The CALM helpline is open every day from 5pm-12am (midnight) on 0800 58 58 58. You can webchat with them via their website, and find out more about them at www.thecalmzone.net

Hub of Hope is a directory of local mental health services in the UK. They have a range of fact sheets and information about different mental health diagnoses and lists of specific support services for each condition. Their website is https://hubofhope.co.uk/

Dads Matter UK is a free service that provides support for dads worried about or suffering from depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). You can find more information on their website https://www.dadsmatteruk.org/

You can also reach out to the EIC either via out contact form – https://electricalcharity.org/find-help/ or our support line on 0800 652 1618.

And you can read more here: https://electricalcharity.org/suicide-prevention/

Join the Emerging Professionals Board at the Electrical Industries Charity and Help Shape the Future of the Industry

Are you an emerging professional in the electrical industry, eager to expand your leadership skills, network and make a difference? The Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) is excited to announce open positions on our Emerging Professionals (EP) Board. This is your opportunity to get involved in key projects and contribute to a charity that is at the heart of the electrical and energy industries.

The EP Board is composed of young, talented individuals who have been in the industry for less than 10 years. It plays a vital role in supporting the charity’s objectives and driving meaningful change within the industry. EP Board members have the chance to take on leadership roles and help manage critical projects that directly impact both the charity’s mission and the broader community.

By joining the EP Board, you will:

Expand Your Professional Skill Set: Gain invaluable experience in management, strategy and governance, all while contributing to a charitable cause.
Elevate Your Industry Profile: EP Board members work closely with industry leaders and attend Trustee meetings, giving you the chance to raise your profile and establish yourself as an emerging leader.
Influence Key Initiatives: You’ll play an integral role in shaping the initiatives and direction of the charity. EP Board members have the opportunity to be part of our main board on a rolling basis, allowing you to have further influence on the charity’s future.
Build a Strong Network: Develop relationships with like-minded professionals and influential figures in the electrical industry, while also growing your personal and professional network.

What to Expect as a Member:

The EP Board meets four times a year to discuss and plan initiatives and members also have the opportunity to attend an annual Trustee meeting. During these meetings, members can present and advocate for key initiatives they believe the charity should undertake for the coming year.

As an EP Board member, you will take part in discussions on the management and strategy side of charitable work, while also influencing projects that align with the charity’s goals. It’s an incredible opportunity to develop leadership skills, all while helping to make a real difference within the industry.

Why Join?

Joining the EP Board is not only an opportunity for personal growth but also a chance to give back to an industry that supports thousands of professionals across the UK. If you are passionate about your career and the electrical industry, and if you have a drive to contribute to positive change, we want to hear from you!

Together, we can foster innovation and create lasting impacts within the electrical industry, all while developing the leaders of tomorrow.

Apply Today

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to expand your skills, grow your network, and influence the future of the electrical industry. If you have less than 10 years of experience in the industry and are ready to take the next step in your career, apply to join the Emerging Professional Board today!

If you are interested and would like to learn more please contact us via email: business@electricalcharity.org

A Journey of Impact and Commitment: Celebrating Neal Hooper

In the realm of philanthropy and community service, individuals like Neal Hooper shine as beacons of inspiration. As Neal concludes his tenure on the board of the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC), his profound contributions have left a lasting mark not only on the charity but also on the broader electrical industry. Through an exclusive interview, we delve into Neal’s journey, reflecting on his motivations, achievements and the future of the EIC.

Neal Hooper’s involvement with the EIC was born out of a desire to align his charitable efforts with his professional community. He shares, “Being involved with quite a number of charities but not our industry’s own charity did not feel correct.” His journey as a board member was defined by a commitment to raising awareness within the industry, leading Aico to significantly increase its support. Neal’s role was pivotal in bridging the gap between the EIC and the electrical industry, fostering a culture of giving and support.

During his tenure, Neal witnessed significant changes within the electrical industry, notably a growing concern for mental health exacerbated by the challenges of COVID-19. The EIC responded with proactive measures, offering crucial support to address these issues among industry professionals. Neal reflects on this period, emphasizing the charity’s adaptability and responsiveness to emerging needs.

When asked about his proudest moments, Neal deflects attention from personal accolades to highlight the collective achievements of the EIC. He expresses pride in passing on the baton to younger colleagues, ensuring continuity in the charity’s impactful work across regional committees.

However, Neal acknowledges that challenges have been part of the journey. The onset of COVID-19 posed a significant financial hurdle as traditional fundraising events were disrupted. The board responded with careful financial stewardship, ensuring the charity’s sustainability for the future – a testament to their resilience and strategic planning.

Reflecting on the EIC’s impact, Neal underscores every intervention as a success story, emphasizing the charity’s pivotal role in supporting the community. However, he expresses concern over the lack of industry support and calls for more companies to get behind the EIC’s mission.

Looking ahead, Neal remains optimistic about the EIC’s future under new leadership. He praises successors Jess and Jeremy, confident in their vision and strategic direction for the charity. As he prepares to step down, Neal offers sage advice to incoming board members, emphasizing the need for unwavering commitment beyond mere attendance – a sentiment reflecting his deep personal investment in charitable causes.

Considering the evolving landscape of the electrical industry, Neal is cautious not to prescribe specific strategies but trusts in the leadership’s foresight and adaptability. His tenure has been defined by fruitful collaborations and partnerships within the industry, reinforcing the EIC’s role as a transformative force for good.

As Neal bids farewell to his board position, he cherishes the relationships forged and the impact made. He acknowledges his ongoing role as a firm advocate for the EIC and charitable causes, pledging to continue driving his company’s philanthropic efforts forward.

Neal Hooper’s journey with the EIC exemplifies dedication, leadership and a profound commitment to making a difference. His legacy serves as an inspiration, urging others to follow in his footsteps, ensuring that the EIC’s mission of creating positive change endures for years to come.