Working in the emergency services has always been a challenging job, but the coronavirus pandemic has made it even harder for you. Our 2021 research shows that 69% of emergency responders feel their mental health has deteriorated as a result of the pandemic.
We're developing new support and information for staff, volunteers and employers in the emergency services to help you and your colleagues to cope during the pandemic and beyond. Below you can find our available support, a range of resources and more information about the programme.
If you're struggling, you're not alone. Our brand new page on coping with your mental health during the pandemic offers detailed information, tips and contact details for support services. You can also contact our confidential Blue Light Infoline on 0300 303 5999.
We are working with The Ambulance Staff Charity, Police Care UK and The Fire Fighters Charity to ensure emergency responders have access to support. The Mental Health at Work website offers further support from these organisations and other providers.
Image credit: Metropolitan Police
Image credit: London Ambulance Service
We have a range of specialised information and advice to help you to manage your mental health at work.
As part of the programme, we will continue to produce new information resources to help you cope with the effects of the pandemic. The first new resource is available now. Our information is for anyone in the emergency services and is available below.
You can play a crucial role in challenging stigma and ensuring your colleagues are supported with their mental health and wellbeing.
Image credit: West Midlands Police
Help keep your staff and volunteers well by giving them the mental health and wellbeing support that they need, with our resources, the support of local Minds and the support of our partners.
Staff, volunteers and employers from across the emergency services have shared their experiences, tips and advice about looking after your mental health at work.
Over the coming months we'll also be sharing more lived experience stories to support you in managing your mental health during the pandemic. You can find some of our existing blogs from the previous programme here.
Image credit: London Ambulance Service
Our training courses are developed to meet the specific needs of the emergency services workforce. They help you to manage your own and others' wellbeing at work, build resilience, and support colleagues after traumatic incidents.
Our existing courses are currently paused due to the pandemic. In response, we're currently developing new training. Find out more below.
Image credit: London Fire Brigade
Our Blue Light Programme is here to support the mental health of emergency responders in response to the pandemic.
From 2015 to 2019, thousands of people who dedicate their lives to saving others received information, resources, training, or accessed support through the Blue Light Programme and our network of local Minds.