Urgent support
If you feel like you might attempt suicide, or may have seriously harmed yourself, it is important to get help immediately. Please:
- Call 999,
- Make your way to A&E (if you are able to),
- Contact your local Urgent Mental Health Line
If you are unable to do this alone, please contact someone you trust to support you.
Other support
The First Response Service (FRS) puts you and your mental health first, providing a service seven days a week, 365 days a year.
- If you're Devon based (excl Plymouth): Devon Partnership NHS Trust- Call the crisis line on NHS 111 (select the mental health option).
- If you're Plymouth based: Livewell Southwest - Call the crisis line on NHS 111 (select the mental health option).
- If you're Cornwall based: Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust- 0800 038 5300.
- If you're Somerset based: Somerset NHS Foundation Trust 0800 138 1692.
If you'd like to talk to someone about how you're feeling but are not in immediate danger, these services offer free, confidential support:
- Samaritans: 24 hr helpline offering emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide. Helpline: 116 123 (free of charge from a landline or mobile) or email: jo@samaritans.org for a reply within 24hrs.
- SHOUT: text 85258 for 24/7 text support from a crisis volunteer.
- Breaking The Silence SF: a website for suicidal people and those in mental health crisis. They provide online forums, chat, information and support.
If you’re concerned about a colleague, it’s okay to reach out. You don’t need to have all the answers – simply showing care can make a difference.
If you believe someone is at immediate risk, follow the Urgent Support guidance above.
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
There is further information about to supporting fellow colleagues on the following webpage.