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Pod 6, The Engine Rooms, Station Road
Chepstow
Monmouthshire

01633 730907

For more than 10 years we have provided companies of all sizes and in a variety of sectors with uncomplicated, innovative and affordable human resources advice and on-site support ensuring that your people are an asset to your company and not a liability.

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With the National Minimum Wage (NMW) now almost fifteen years old, and with another increase pending on 1st April 2017 HMRC have issued a list of the most elaborate excuses they've been given by employers for not paying the appropriate rates:

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Alan Kitto

Introduction

Every September, organisations across the globe mark Suicide Prevention Month — a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and encourage open conversations about mental health and suicide. With World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, this month offers a crucial reminder that workplaces are not just sites of productivity, but communities where wellbeing must be safeguarded.

Why Suicide Prevention Matters at Work

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and poor mental health is a major contributor. Employees struggling in silence can face overwhelming challenges that affect not only their personal lives but also workplace engagement, productivity, and safety. For HR professionals and business leaders, suicide prevention is more than a moral imperative — it is a critical component of a sustainable workplace strategy. Proactive support can quite literally save lives.

Statistics

  • In 2023, in the UK there were 7,055 suicides, the highest rate since 1999; that’s more than 19 per day

  • Suicide remains the top cause of death in men under the age of 50

  • The suicide risk for LGBTQ+ adults is more Ethan twice that of heterosexual peers

The Role of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

One of the most effective tools employers can use is an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). These confidential, employer-funded services provide:

  • 24/7 counselling and emotional support by trained professionals.

  • Practical guidance on financial, legal, or family issues that often underpin stress.

  • Crisis intervention resources for those experiencing acute mental distress.

Promoting EAPs isn’t just about making them available — employees must be reminded regularly that support is confidential, stigma-free, and accessible whenever they need it. Line managers and HR teams should also be trained to signpost employees sensitively and without judgement.

We can help you to find the right EAP for you, they can cost as little as £17.50 per employee per annum.

Creating a Culture of Openness

Beyond EAPs, HR teams can help foster a workplace culture where mental health is openly discussed:

  • Train managers in mental health awareness and how to spot early warning signs.

  • Introduce peer support networks or wellbeing champions.

  • Ensure workloads and expectations are managed in a way that supports resilience and reduces burnout.

  • Mark key awareness dates, like World Suicide Prevention Day, to show ongoing commitment.

Signposting: Key Resources for Employers and Employees

Employers should always be ready to provide signposting to trusted, external resources. Recommended contacts include:

  • Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free, 24/7 helpline) or visit www.samaritans.org

  • Mind: www.mind.org.uk – mental health support and advice

  • Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): Call 0800 58 58 58 or visit www.thecalmzone.net

  • Papyrus (Prevention of Young Suicide): Call 0800 068 4141 or visit www.papyrus-uk.org

Signposting should be included in HR policies, employee handbooks, and visibly displayed on intranets or noticeboards.

Final Thoughts

Suicide Prevention Month is a call to action: for employers to step up their commitment to employee wellbeing, and for HR leaders to ensure that prevention, support, and openness are woven into workplace culture. By promoting EAPs, equipping managers, and offering clear signposting, organisations can make a meaningful difference — and help save lives.

We can help by delivering training to managers to help them understand common mental health conditions and what to do if one of their team needs help, we can also help you with finding he right EAP for your organisation.

For more information on this and any other HR matter, please give us a call.