Manager's guide to supporting staff during times of crisis

If you're a manager looking to support a colleague who is in a time of crisis, please refer to this guidance in the first instance.

SOS - Support

If your life is at risk:

  • Please call 999. This is an emergency. You’re not wasting anybody’s time
  • Go straight to A&E
  • Call your local crisis team. Lines are available 24/7
Man on phone

If you need to talk:

There are free, anonymous, 24/7 helplines dedicated to helping you through difficult times and experiences. If you’re struggling, please:

Remember, you can also get in touch with the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care System’s Staff Wellbeing Hub Team between 9:00am – 5:00pm, Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) on 0191 223 2030.

Trauma

Wellbeing Support Guide

Our responding to trauma guide can act as a hub of signposting to both internal and external support services, including dedicated services there to support those experiencing intrusive thoughts and suicidal feelings.

Whether you’re seeking immediate support, 1:1 support, information around on-site support facilities and services, more targeted support or support after loss, the guide can help you find an appropriate service.

Targeted support

Targeted support:

  • James’ Place are located in central Newcastle and offer the ability to self-refer to receive treatment if you’re a male who is suicidal.
  • Switchboard phone operators identify as LGBT+ and are there to offer support to those who identify as LGBT+. Call Switchboard on 0300 330 0630 between 10:00am – 10:00pm every day or use their webchat service
  • Black Minds Matter aims to connect black individuals with free mental health services and is host to both therapists and resources
  • Mental Health Foundation host a range of resources designed to support those with learning disabilities, and help them to access mental health support
  • Papyrus is a helpline there to support young people (aged under 35) who are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or support those who have concerns about a young person. More targeted support options for young people can be found via the Mental Health Foundation
  • Gendered Intelligence aims to increase understanding of gender diversity and improve trans people’s quality of life
  • Practitioner Health is a free and confidential NHS service for doctors and dentists that are experiencing mental health and/or addiction issues
Mind Mental Health Logo

Crisis coping tools:

For further guidance on helping yourself to cope, advice on how to distract yourself, information to better understand what you’re experiencing, views from others who have been in a similar situation and/or further support resources available to you, please visit Mind via the button below.

Zero Suicide Alliance - Free Training

Zero Suicide Alliance - Free Training

The Zero Suicide Alliance provide access to free training on suicide prevention, offering an introduction to suicide awareness, information on social isolation and equipping you with the skills and confidence needed to help someone who might be contemplating suicide