Starting conversations in the workplace about suicide
Birmingham City Council is encouraging Birmingham residents to engage in open, compassionate conversations with colleagues in the workplace.
Suicide is the elephant in the room, yet it is the leading cause of death in young men and women in England today. In 2024, Birmingham lost 89 people to suicide. Research shows that every suicide directly affects 135 people, meaning that as many as 12,015 people in Birmingham were impacted by those losses in 2024 alone.
As the average person spends around 90,000 hours at work over their lifetime, both employers and colleagues are often first to notice changes in behaviour or mood that may signal that someone is struggling.
Councillor Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care at Birmingham City Council, said:
“In Birmingham, we all have a role to play in preventing deaths by suicide, starting with how we talk to one another, particularly in the workplace. When colleagues feel able to speak openly about their most challenging moments, everyday workplace relationships can be an important source of connection and trust and can ultimately save lives. I’d encourage everyone to learn more about how to have these important conversations because showing kindness and support can make a life-saving difference to those who need it most.”
Below are some practical tips to support a colleague who might be struggling:
- Ask how they’re doing
- Listen without judgement
- Explain that you’re asking because you care and want to help
- Mention changes you’ve noticed and express concerns for their wellbeing
- Encourage professional support—suggest speaking to a GP, and signpost support services such as texting SPACE to 85258 for free, confidential advice from a mental health professional
- Keep checking in and let them know you’re willing to listen
To find local crisis support and advice on how to have open, compassionate conversations about suicide, please visit the council's suicide prevention campaign web pages.
To take part in a free, half-day suicide prevention training, you can register at Eventbrite.
If you're worried about a colleague, or you're experiencing a crisis yourself, you can phone 111 and select option 2 or text ‘SPACE’ to 85258. You can also phone Samaritans at 116 123, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
