September is Suicide Prevention Month, dedicated to opening up the conversation around suicide, how to spot the signs, and how you can help.
The most recently released data from the Office for National Statistics reports that in 2024, there were 6,190 deaths by suicide registered in the UK, and Samaritans reports volunteers responded to a call for help every 10 seconds.
In our 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 often learnt to shy away from. We will ensure physical safety on job sites but wilfully overlook the signs that we, or someone we know. is struggling with 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 well as feeling overwhelming. A first step could be to speak with your GP, counsellor or or reach out to one of the services and helplines we have listed below.
You Are Not Alone:
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are in immediate danger, please call 999.
Samaritans is a listening service and emotional support to anyone about any issue, with a special focus on suicidal feelings. They are open 24/7, all day, every day. You can call the helpline for free on 116 123, find out more here: samaritans.org
Papyrus is 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 88247, or email pat@papyrus-uk.org, find out more: papyrus-uk.org
If you would rather not speak on the phone, you can contact SHOUT via text on 85258 with the word ‘SHOUT’. Find out more here: giveusashout.org
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 or WhatsApp with them via their website, and find out more at calmzone.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 hubofhope.co.uk
You can also reach out to the Electrical Industries Charity either via our contact form https://electricalcharity.org/find-help/ or our support line on 0800 652 1618.
However, we do not provide immediate crisis assistance. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are in immediate danger, please call 999.
Or team is available during working hours between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday on 0800 652 1618. If you need support outside of these hours, please visit our Out of Hours and Crisis Support page for options, or contact one of the organisation above.
And you can read more here.
