Helplines – Mental health crisis

Promoting mental health helplines is a proactive step that employers can take to support the wellbeing of their workforce. By raising awareness of these valuable resources, employers can ensure that employees have access to immediate and confidential support for their mental health needs.

Today is Helplines Awareness Day 23 February

In this blog, we share key mental health crisis helplines and how employers can effectively raise awareness among their workforce.

Samaritans — 116 123

Regardless of the challenges, Samaritans provides assistance for any worries, troubles, and concerns. You do not have to be experiencing suicidal thoughts to reach out to them. Their support is available around the clock, every day of the year.

More information: Samaritans

SANEline – 0300 304 7000

If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10pm every day).

More information: SANEline

National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK – 0800 689 5652

Provides a compassionate listening service for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts. The National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK is available at 0800 689 5652 from 6pm to midnight daily.

More information: SP-UK

Switchboard – 0300 330 0630

If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender, you can reach out to Switchboard at 0300 330 0630 (available from 10 am to 10 pm daily). All phone operators are members of the LGBT+ community.

More information: Switchboard

How Employers Can Raise Awareness

One effective way for employers to do this is by raising the profile of mental health helplines. These helplines provide invaluable support and resources to individuals struggling with mental health challenges, offering a confidential and accessible avenue for seeking help. In this blog, we explore why employers should prioritise promoting mental health helplines and how they can effectively raise awareness among their workforce.

1. Internal Communications

Utilise internal communication channels such as email newsletters, intranet portals, and employee meetings to promote mental health helplines. Provide information about the services offered, how to access them, and the benefits of seeking support.

2. Training and Education

Offer training sessions or workshops to educate employees about mental health, destigmatise seeking help, and raise awareness of available resources like helplines. Equip managers with the knowledge and skills to support employees who may be struggling.

3. Promotional Materials

Display posters, flyers, and other promotional materials in common areas such as staffrooms, communal noticeboards, and toilets. Ensure that these materials include clear contact information for mental health helplines and emphasise the confidentiality of the services.

4. Partnerships

Collaborate with mental health organisations and helpline providers to raise awareness among employees. Consider hosting events or webinars featuring guest speakers who can share insights and resources related to mental health support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, promoting mental health helplines is a proactive and essential step for employers to support the wellbeing of their workforce. By raising awareness of these valuable resources, employers can ensure that employees have access to immediate and confidential support for their mental health needs. In this blog, we’ve highlighted five helplines and provided strategies for employers to effectively raise awareness among their workforce.

Summary

• Promoting mental health helplines is crucial for supporting employee wellbeing in the workplace.
• Awareness of helplines ensures employees have access to immediate and confidential support for mental health needs.
• Five helplines, including Samaritans, HOPEline UK, SANEline, National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK, and Switchboard, offer diverse support options.
• Employers can raise awareness through internal communications, training, promotional materials, and partnerships with mental health organisations.
• Prioritising mental health fosters a culture of support and compassion, emphasising that help is always available.

Together, let’s prioritise mental health in the workplace and create a culture of support, understanding, and compassion. Explore our wellbeing services and manager’s wellbeing training today. Your employees wellbeing matters, and help is always available.

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