Staff from across University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) came together today (Thursday 17 September) in the Secret Garden at the Glenfield Hospital to mark National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers.
The event, which took place as part of the national awareness day launched by Practitioner Health and Doctors in Distress in 2024, provided an opportunity for colleagues to remember healthcare workers lost to suicide, reflect on the challenges faced by those working in health and care, and highlight the importance of supporting colleague wellbeing.
This year’s theme, ‘Lasting memories, building hope’, was reflected throughout the event, which welcomed guest speakers from Practitioner Health, Doctors in Distress and The Tomorrow Project. Colleagues also had the opportunity to visit information and support stalls and take part in a memorial service led by UHL’s Chaplaincy team.
Clare Teeney, Chief People Officer at UHL, said: “It was incredibly moving to see colleagues come together to remember those we have lost and to support one another. National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers provides an important opportunity to reflect, to honour lasting memories, and to reinforce our commitment to creating a culture where people feel able to seek help when they need it.
“The wellbeing of colleagues remains a priority, and events like this remind us of the importance of compassion, connection and hope. Thank you to everyone who helped organise the day and to those who attended and shared their stories and messages.”
As part of the day, attendees were invited to share messages of remembrance and hope, while learning more about support available for healthcare workers experiencing mental health challenges.
National Suicide Memorial Day for Health and Care Workers aims to honour the lives of colleagues, friends and loved ones who have been lost to suicide, while encouraging conversations and action to better protect the mental health of healthcare workers.