Everywhen, GRiD and RedArc urge employers to strengthen suicide prevention and mental health support

Katharine Moxham, spokesperson for GRiD, said: “Employers are well placed to instigate a change in the narrative by driving systemic policy change in the workplace. 

“Starting the conversation begins with creating an environment where employees feel comfortable to discuss the issues and any concerns they may have about themselves or their colleagues. 

“This then needs to be supported by enabling employees to easily seek and receive help.”

Moxham added: “We all need to talk more openly about suicide to change the narrative. 

“Sadly, as an industry, we do see claims for suicide and we do pay them (393 in 2025). 

“However, it is preventable and avoidable, and everyone needs to be equipped to spot the signs and have a conversation with someone who is struggling.”

She said: “Employers can help by using the embedded services within group risk benefits: employer-sponsored life assurance, income protection and critical illness – communicating these often to show they care and that they are offering support. 

“The issues continue 24/7, not just once a year, so employee knowledge of the support available and how to access it has to stick.”

Christine Husbands, commercial consultant at RedArc, said: “It’s encouraging that the stigma around talking about mental health is reducing, and more people feel able to speak up when they’re struggling.

“Reaching out and talking is an important and positive first step, but an assessment from a clinically trained mental health professional is fundamental in assessing risk and putting appropriate support in place.

“Every day we see the difference that support from a mental health specialist can make, particularly when it is available as soon as someone begins to experience symptoms, rather than waiting until their condition has become more serious.”

Husbands added: “Early intervention gives people the best chance of accessing the right support at the right time.”