In recognition of World Suicide Prevention Day, which takes place on 10 September, First Response Group (FRG), a rapidly growing independent security company in the UK, has announced its membership in the Security Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide (SCPS). The SCPS, established three years ago, is a collaborative network of public and private sector security organizations focused on suicide prevention, particularly within the security profession. The industry faces significant challenges, as security workers experience some of the highest rates of occupational stress, with research showing it ranks third among UK industries most affected by suicide.
Barry Dawson, who became the group managing director of FRG earlier this year, expressed strong support for the company’s involvement in addressing the root causes of suicide through collaboration across the sector. He remarked, “I have been in this industry a long time, 35 years in fact, and have long been aware of the problem faced by many security officers in dealing with stress associated with rigours many of them face daily in protecting people and assets. The SCPS is an excellent platform for educating and sharing knowledge. In my view, every security company needs to get behind this.””
Research conducted by Dr. Risto Talas and Professor Mark Button from the University of Portsmouth highlights the severity of the issue, revealing that 40% of security officers show symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
On publishing his findings, Professor Button had said, “The research has revealed a worrying lack of support provided by the security companies. This must change and more research is required on what the security industry as a whole must do to address this issue before it becomes a larger societal issue, with added pressure on the limited mental health and wellbeing services provided by the NHS.”
The SCPS is guided by a panel featuring representatives from the National Police Chiefs Council Suicide Prevention Group, City of London Police, The Worshipful Company of Security Professionals, and the Samaritans. Together, they aim to drive innovation and collaboration between corporate, public, and voluntary sectors to address the suicide epidemic.
FRG’s CEO, Simon Alderson, also commented on the company’s support for the Consortium, stating, “Many security professionals will struggle with mental health problems. It’s crucial that the industry grasps this and puts in place the measures to identify all the warning signs and prevent avoidable personal tragedy. It is also important to recognise that Security officers are often first responders when someone is in crisis, including those at risk of suicide. Ensuring security professionals have the right tools and training empowers them to respond effectively and ultimately contribute to safer, more effective outcomes in crisis situations.”