Changing the Narrative

Today we join others in marking World Suicide Prevention Day.

World Suicide Prevention Day takes place on 10^th September every year. It is organised by the International Association for Suicide Prevention and is co-sponsored by the World Health Organisation.

The aim is to “raise awareness around the globe that suicide can be prevented”.

This is so true and at Jerram Falkus Construction we are passionate about creating a culture where conversations about mental health are normalised, stigmas removed and people are empowered to seek support.

 

The Narrative has to change

Each year there is a theme. For 2024 it is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”.

Suicide remains the biggest cause of death for men under the age of 35. In 2021, of the 6,319 suicides in the UK, 507 were in construction.

The figures are stark and the meanings behind them are complex as a number of factors often come together to increase risk.

This is why World Suicide Prevention Day is so important and we join with organisations such as Mates in Mind, with a sense of urgency, to break the stigma and save lives.

 

Raising awareness

To that end we have committed to dramatically increasing Mental Health awareness and facilities for our staff.

In 2022 we began training Mental Health First Aiders and this is now being expanded across our organisation and our sites. We actively engage with organisations such as Mates in Mind, St John Ambulance and CITB and we promote their work across our sites.

We cannot be complacent. As a construction company, the above statistics make for very sobering reading. It is vital that as a sector, we work together to normalise discussions around mental health and remove stigma, making our building sites and office “safe spaces”.

Changing the narrative on suicide requires systemic change. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

Today we celebrate the strength and resilience of those who have overcome mental health struggles.

Suicide can be prevented. Let’s spread love and hope as we raise awareness for this important cause.

Start the conversation today. Every chat, no matter how small, builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritise suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need.

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