Land Sheriffs is continuing its work around suicide prevention through specialist training, industry collaboration and engagement with organisations supporting suicide prevention.
The Essex-based security company provides services including mobile patrols, manned guarding and welfare patrols across several sectors, including the rail industry.
Its officers work in environments such as railway stations and trackside locations, where they may encounter people experiencing emotional distress or at risk of suicide.
Land Sheriffs has renewed its Gold Membership with the Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide (CPS), an independent UK charity working to increase awareness and shared responsibility around suicide prevention.
“Protecting people has always been at the heart of what we do, and unfortunately, our officers encounter vulnerable individuals who may be considering suicide on a regular basis. Working alongside organisations like CPS ensures we are always helping to improve suicide prevention awareness, education and intervention across the UK” says James Coyle, Managing Director of Land Sheriffs.
Managers from Land Sheriffs have also completed Suicide First Aider (SFA) – Understanding Suicide Intervention training. The course provides participants with knowledge and practical skills to recognise signs that someone may be experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The training includes interactive learning and practical exercises focused on intervention and the implementation of suicide-safety measures as a form of first aid.
Land Sheriffs also works with the Samaritans, with its officers receiving training in Managing Suicidal Contacts. The programme is designed primarily for people working on the rail network and covers how to identify and support individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts.
“Our teams can often find themselves in situations where their actions and intervention can make a genuine difference, so being equipped with the knowledge and skills they need is essential to protecting the welfare of the people we encounter” says James.
Land Sheriffs says its officers have reported more than 500 potentially life-saving interventions since 2005. The company has also established a dedicated Trespass & Welfare Team focused on preventing trespassing on railway tracks and supporting the welfare of station staff and network users.
Representatives from Land Sheriffs are also due to attend the Consortium for the Prevention of Suicide’s World Suicide Prevention Day event on 10th September. The event will bring together organisations and individuals for discussion and reflection around suicide prevention.
“Suicide remains the single leading cause of death for people under the age of 35 in the UK and, for men, it is the biggest killer of those aged under 50. Suicide prevention requires collaboration, understanding and a willingness to keep learning, which is why we’re committed to specialist training and continuing to engage with others working in this area” concludes James.