One year ago, we launched the Fire Fighters Charity Crisis Line – a lifeline to support fire service personnel in their darkest moments. Over the past 12 months, the line has received 217 calls, each one a chance for someone in the fire service community to find connection and strength when they need it most.
The 24/7 Crisis Line – 0300 373 0896 – was created because we saw a need. A gap that had left too many fire service members and their families without the critical support they needed at the height of a crisis. Now, whenever someone experiences suicidal thoughts – day or night – help is just a call away.
This effort goes beyond the Crisis Line, too. Alongside it, we developed a range of online suicide prevention and postvention resources designed for fire service members, families, and anyone who may be struggling themselves or knows someone who is. These resources are always available here:
We’ve also since shared guides for workplace managers (here) and senior leaders (here).
Sharon Bailey, our Director of Services, says: “The launch of the Fire Fighters Charity Crisis Line marked a major step forward in the way we offer support to our fire family – and the number of calls we’ve received to the 24/7 line over the last 12 months brings home just how vital it has been.
“Suicide has a devastating impact, with evidence suggesting that every death affects around 135 people, so we are committed to preventing these tragedies through not only our Crisis Line, but also our dedicated resources and ongoing mental health support.
“Please remember, it’s never too late to reach out to us. The Fire Fighters Charity Crisis Line is available 24/7 on 0300 373 0896 and we have a range of mental health and wellbeing resources available to you on our website: www.firefighterscharity.org.uk.”
Launched at the Emergency Services Mental Health Symposium in 2023, and supported by HRH The Prince of Wales and The Royal Foundation, the Crisis Line was funded by the Blue Light Card Foundation (BLCF) as well as fire and rescue services, supported by the NFCC.
Since the launch, we’ve spread the word about the importance of the Crisis Line directly with Fire and Rescue Services across the UK, as well as through external conferences and on key dates throughout the year.
We also shared a promotional video on World Suicide Prevention Day this year which you can watch above, as well as a number of resources which you can find here.
You can find out more about exactly what to expect when you call our Crisis Line here:
And to find out more about our Crisis Line, click here: