Suffolk Mind helps create world's first workplace suicide prevention standard

A mental health expert from Suffolk Mind has contributed to the creation of the world's first standard for addressing suicide risk in the workplace.

Ezra Hewing, who leads mental health education at the charity, collaborated with other organisations, including Samaritans and the British Standards Institution (BSI), to develop BS 30480.

The guideline, titled Suicide and the workplace – Intervention, prevention and support for people affected by suicide – Guide, offers evidence-based recommendations to support individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or affected by suicide in professional environments.

Hewing said: “It has been a privilege joining colleagues across the mental health sector in creating this truly historic guide. Research has shown that one in four adults have contemplated suicide – with one in 13 having attempted it. Their death will impact as many as 135 people, including colleagues and clients.”

He highlighted the importance of workplaces offering guidance and support, noting that they can provide people with vital opportunities to meet emotional needs, cope with suicidal feelings, and have hope for the future.

What the guidelines include

The 61-page standard has already been downloaded in over 100 countries, since its publication by the BSI.

Topics covered include creating individual safety plans, sensitively discussing suicide, communicating effectively, handling media inquiries, and toolkits for human resources and managers.

Anne Hayes, BSI's Director of Sectors and Standards Development, said the guideline is a “significant milestone” in addressing mental health and wellbeing at work.

“This standard provides a much-needed framework to empower employers and leaders to take meaningful action and help them build safe, compassionate workplaces where people feel supported and valued,” Hayes said.

Opportunities for workplaces

Organisations using the guideline are encouraged by BSI to pledge action against suicide in the workplace and collaborate in implementing positive change.

Ezra Hewing added, “These guidelines offer an opportunity for workplaces to be early adopters of these guidelines and contribute to reducing levels of suicide.”

Suffolk Mind is hosting webinars to discuss the standard’s implementation locally. The charity is also continuing its Understanding Suicide: Working Aged Men workshops.

Expressions of interest can be emailed to [email protected]

The standard can be downloaded for free via the BSI website: www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insights-and-media/insights/brochures/bs-30480-suicide-and-the-workplace

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