Concerned for a colleague
Everyone can play a part in creating a supportive workplace. You don't need to be a mental health professional to check in with a colleague who may be struggling. You can make a meaningful difference by listening, showing empathy, and helping someone find the right support.
At the same time, it's important to remember that you are not expected to solve someone else's problems. Your role is to be a supportive colleague and help signpost them to appropriate support when needed.
If you believe someone is at immediate risk, follow the Urgent Support guidance.
A helpful way to guide your response is the ALGEE approach:
A – Approach and assess for risk of suicide and harm
Gently ask open questions and create a safe, private space for the conversation.
If the person does not want to confide in you, encourage them to talk to someone they trust.
L – Listen
Listen without interrupting or judging.
Give them your full attention and take what they say seriously.
G – Give reassurance and information
Let them know that they’re not alone and that support is available:
- ‘I’m really glad you told me’
- ‘You don’t have to deal with this on your own’
E – Encourage appropriate professional help
Encourage them to seek appropriate support:
- Contact a support service (e.g. GP, NHS 111, internal support)
- Speak to line manager, or HR if relevant
- Reach out to somebody they trust
E – Encourage self-help and other support strategies
Support small steps where possible and check in later:
- Encourage rest, breaks and other coping strategies
- Follow up to see how they’re doing
The Supporting the Mental Wellbeing of your Team, this training supports line managers in gaining skills and knowledge to be able to support their teams their and fulfil their duties to support their teams wellbeing. It covers:
- The role you play, and your legal duty in supporting the mental wellbeing of your team and why this is so important
- How to recognise and respond to stress and mental ill health
- Applying the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) “Management Standards” to your workplace
- Developing a compassionate, inclusive and culturally sensitive leadership style
Whilst the training was designed for line managers, all colleagues are welcome to complete as it gives vital information about how to deal with colleagues who may be in distress.