Urgent 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.