Firefighters see rise in call outs to suicide bids

FIREFIGHTERS in Leicestershire are being called out to increasing numbers of suicides and suicide attempts.

Statistics published by the Home Office show fire and rescue services were called out to 30 incidents in 2017/18.

That works out as 2.8 per every 100,000 people in the area - down slightly from 3.1 in 2016/17, when there were 33 incidents.

The number of fire call outs for suicides and suicide attempts has trended upwards since the 22 recorded in 2009/10 - when published figures began. It reached a record 33 incidents in 2016/17.

Last year four people died in suicides that were attended by firefighters across Leicestershire.

A further two people were hospitalised with slight injuries.

Sean Starbuck, FBU national officer commented: “It is deeply sad that there has been an increase in the number of suicide attempts attended by firefighters.

“More needs to be done to support individuals who are suffering, and the firefighters who attempt to save them.

“Incidences such as suicide attempts can have major negative mental health implications for firefighters.

“Alarming numbers of firefighters suffer from mental health issues relating to their work, with 92% of firefighters experiencing stress, low mood and poor mental health at some point while working for the fire and rescue service.

“FBU has published a guide for assisting with mental health at work. It is vital that our firefighters are offered the support that they need, both from employers and health services.”

A spokesperson for Samaritans said: “Anyone can contact Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit.

“This number won’t show up on your phone bill.

“Or you can email jo@ samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch, where you can talk to one of our trained volunteers face to face.”