In a continued effort to promote mental health awareness and support among its workforce, a mental health toolbox talk was conducted in Tipton last week by our Labour Supervisor, Colin Fahey. This initiative is part of a broader project aimed at delivering mental health talks across all company sites, leading up to Suicide Prevention Day, Tuesday 10th September 2024.
During the session, operatives were provided with valuable information on mental health resources available to them. The talk emphasized the importance of open communication and reassured attendees that it is completely acceptable to not feel okay and to seek help when needed.
Contact details for the company’s two designated mental health first aiders, Lucy and Conner were shared, ensuring that everyone knows who to reach out to if they need support. The first aiders, trained to offer initial assistance and guide individuals to appropriate professional help, are a cornerstone of the company’s mental health strategy.
As part of the discussion, several alarming facts and figures about suicide in the UK were presented to underline the gravity of the issue. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), In 2023, 5,579 suicides were registered in England, equivalent to a provisional rate of 11.1 suicide deaths per 100,000 people; this rate was statistically significantly higher than the rates in 2022, 2021. Alarmingly, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, with the highest rates found in middle-aged men. This data highlights the urgent need for effective mental health support systems in workplaces and communities.
The toolbox talk also included strategies to identify signs of mental distress in colleagues, encouraging operatives to look out for each other. This peer support approach aims to foster a supportive environment where everyone feels safe to express their concerns.
The Tipton talk is one of many planned sessions as part of the company’s commitment to mental health and well-being. By addressing these issues head-on and providing practical resources and support, the company hopes to make a significant impact on its employees’ lives, promoting a culture of care and understanding.
In the lead-up to Suicide Prevention Day, these initiatives serve as a reminder that mental health is as crucial as physical health. The company’s proactive approach not only aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues but also strives to ensure that all employees have access to the help they need when they need it most.
Through continuous education and support, the company is paving the way towards a more informed, empathetic, and mentally healthy workforce.
