FM Firm Supports World Suicide Prevention Day

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• FM Firm Supports World Suicide Prevention Day

08 September 2022

Facilities services provider ABM, alongside other industry players, is raising awareness about suicide prevention at a London conference.

Taking place on 8 September in London, the conference will see representatives from ABM’s security business sharing the vital work being done within the company’s security division as well as the wider business.

ABM is a founding member of the Security Consortium for Suicide Prevention (SCSP), which launched in early 2022. This is a network of security organisations in the public and private sector working as a consortium to prevent suicide. Guided by professionals on the topic including the Samaritans and academic experts in suicidology, SCSP exists to channel resources and knowledge.

Vicki Vidler, Founder of the Security Consortium for Suicide Prevention says: “The very definition of security is the state of being free from danger or threat. As a community of people dedicated to protecting others we have an opportunity to use our expertise to tackle the issue of suicide, and we are proud to have ABM on board to help us on that journey.  

“Following our initial launch, the upcoming conference will mark World Suicide Prevention Day and be a wonderful opportunity to spread our message, share ideas and also learn from the professionals in the room.”  

If you are worried about someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, Samaritans have some useful resources here. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 for free, day or night, 365 days a year.

Mental Health First Aid Training

In 2021, ThisWeekinFM spoke to Stephen Peal, Managing Director of PPSPower, who told us about his Mental Health First Aider training through MHFA England.

ABM has also introduced a mental health first aid training programme across its aviation and business and industry divisions. The investment was one of the first of its kind in the industry and was created in partnership with TalkOut, a market-leading change and development platform.  

The investment has seen 75 team members across the ABM UK business trained in mental health first aid.  

Chris Middleton, Security and Client Services Director at ABM says: “We are proud to be a part of the formation of SCSP and to have signed the consortium covenant, expressing our commitment to helping prevent suicide in collaboration with our industry peers.  

“As the world emerges from the pandemic but continues to face challenging times, this has never been more important. Our team members work amongst the public every day and we understand the positive role that they can play in identifying those who are struggling with poor mental health and dealing with critical situations. Furthermore, ensuring our own team members are supported through difficult times is of the utmost importance.” 

World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day will be held on 10 September 2022. It was established in 2003 by the World Health Organisation and the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

An estimated 703,000 people a year take their life around the world. For every suicide, there are likely 20 other people making a suicide attempt and many more have serious thoughts of suicide.

It is hoped that by raising awareness, reducing the stigma around suicide, and encouraging well-informed action, we can reduce instances of suicide around the world.

If you are worried about someone who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, Samaritans have some useful resources here. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 for free, day or night, 365 days a year.

Picture: a photograph of a person working in an ABM-branded uniform in a busy area. Crowds of people can be seen in the background. Image Credit: ABM

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 08 September 2022

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