Herefordshire Mind has launched a new suicide prevention initiative, supported by Herefordshire Council, to make mental health support more visible and accessible across the county. The campaign has seen 20,000 specially designed beer mats distributed to more than 40 pubs, bars, social clubs and community venues in Hereford, helping people access support while encouraging conversations about mental health.
The beer mats provide discreet signposting to local services, including Herefordshire Mind, We Are Farming Minds, Andy’s Man Club, SHOUT, Men Walking and Talking, NHS 111 and Men’s Mental Health Group. Each mat also includes a QR code linking to additional support resources, making it easy for people to find help for themselves or someone they are concerned about.
Alongside the beer mats, venues have received Herefordshire Mind’s new suicide prevention guide, “Ask. Assess. Act.”, developed with support from Hereford Pubwatch. The simple flowchart gives staff practical guidance on recognising the signs of a mental health crisis, asking supportive questions, assessing risk and taking appropriate action through emergency services or local support organisations.
Simon Willis, Safe Haven Service Manager at Herefordshire Mind, said: “We know many people struggle in silence and don’t know where to turn for help. We hope these beer mats encourage people to reach out. Mental health support shouldn’t be difficult to find. If this campaign helps even one person seek support or saves one life, it will have achieved its goal.”
Funded by Herefordshire Council, the initiative highlights the important role communities and local businesses can play in suicide prevention, early intervention and promoting positive mental wellbeing.
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