Swindon Mindful Employer Network event recap: From awareness to action - suicide prevention & workplace happiness
This week, we were pleased to welcome attendees to the third Swindon Mindful Employer Network event of the year - a collaboration between Swindon Borough Council, Business West, and Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind. Aligned with World Suicide Prevention Day on 10th September, this event focused on happiness at work and explored suicide prevention.
Rachael Williams, Fundraising Manager at Suicide Prevention UK (SPUK), shared insights on spotting the signs of poor mental health and supporting colleagues in crisis.
SPUK was founded in 2018 by Michael Everett after a local tragedy highlighted the importance of early intervention. From humble beginnings with a few volunteers in hi-vis jackets, the charity now runs patrol teams, helplines, and outreach across Bristol, Bath, and beyond, offering a vital safety net for people in crisis. Looking ahead, the charity’s long-term vision is to see a suicide prevention team in every UK city.
The importance of language in suicide prevention
One of the most powerful takeaways from Rachael’s talk was the importance of language. Phrases like “commit suicide” can carry connotations of crime or sin, which only add to stigma and shame. Instead, she suggested using terms such as “died by suicide” or “ended their life.” Suicide is a difficult word to say, but normalising its use helps break down barriers and makes it easier for people to open up and seek help.
Suicide warning signs to look out for
There are often signs that someone may be struggling, both in the workplace and beyond. Employers were given some useful tips on how to spot potential risk factors within their employees. These could be behavioural, for example:
- Withdrawal
- Overworking or underworking
- Tiredness
- Neglecting personal hygiene
Verbal cues can be equally telling - comments such as “I’m a burden” or “I don’t want to be here” should never be dismissed as throwaway remarks.
In some cases, a sudden burst of positivity after a long period of low mood can also be a red flag, signalling that a person may have made a difficult decision about their future.
Common suicide risk factors in the workplace
Common risk factors for suicide include:
- Isolation
- Financial stress
- Relationship breakdowns
- Workplace pressures
- Pre-existing mental health challenges (such as trauma, depression, or anxiety)
Certain industries face higher risks than others, with the construction sector particularly vulnerable. Long hours, time away from home, financial strain, and the stigma around speaking openly about mental health all contribute to making construction workers more likely to experience suicidal thoughts or behaviours.
How to support a colleague with suicidal thoughts
Supporting someone who may be at risk starts with noticing changes and being brave enough to reach out. Rachael emphasised the importance of asking open-ended questions such as, “Would you like to talk about it?” rather than offering dismissive reassurances like “Cheer up” or “You’ll be fine.”
Approaching the conversation in private, listening without judgement, and gently encouraging professional support through HR, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a GP, or helplines can make all the difference. If you believe someone’s life is at immediate risk, the right step is always to call 999.
The role of employers in suicide prevention
Employers also play a vital role in creating a mentally healthy workplace. Having clear policies on mental health and crisis response is essential, as is making sure employees know who their Mental Health First Aiders are and how to contact them. Resources such as EAPs are valuable, but only if people are aware of them and feel confident using them. Rachael also encouraged workplaces to support mental health days and regular one-to-one check-ins, ensuring that staff have safe opportunities to open up about how they are really feeling.
Creating a supportive workplace culture for mental health
Beyond policies and procedures, culture makes the biggest difference. Talking about mental health should be as normal as talking about physical health. Leaders who share their own challenges can break down barriers and show that vulnerability is not weakness. Creating safe, private spaces for conversations and celebrating the courage of colleagues who share their experiences helps to reduce stigma and build a workplace where people feel supported and valued.
Key takeaways from the day
The closing message was clear: looking out for one another can save lives. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and support is always available.
Rachael’s session was a vital reminder that suicide prevention starts with awareness and action. By learning to spot the signs, supporting colleagues with empathy, and ensuring workplaces have the right resources in place, we can all help save lives.
As we mark Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, let’s pledge to reducing stigma, encouraging open dialogue, and ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles.
Together, we can build workplaces and communities where mental health is valued and protected.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact Suicide Prevention UK on 0800 587 0800 (6pm–midnight, every day).
Useful resources
Swindon & Gloucestershire Mind shared details of their Wellness Action Plan, a practical tool to help employees reflect on what supports their mental health at work, spot early warning signs, and outline helpful adjustments. It encourages open conversations with managers, promotes well-being, and supports performance, including during times of stress or return from absence. Download the PDF for more information.
The presentation slides from this event are available here for those who missed the event or want to revisit the content.
Our next session on November 5th will focus on understanding men’s mental health. Make sure you register to attend.