** Thoughts of suicide rampant amongst UK ambulance staff, survey says
UNITED KINGDOM NEWS
** Thoughts of suicide are apparently rampant amongst UK ambulance personnel with nearly a quarter saying they had contemplated the idea. That is the word from The Fleetwood Weekly News (April 21) which quoted from a survey done by the mental health charity Mind. According to the research, some 63 per cent of medics had also pondered quitting. Stress and poor mental health were given as reasons in both instances. The online poll included participation from 1,600 staff and volunteers. The survey is part of the Blue Light Programme which involves 54 employers and 9 national associations which have organized to raise mental health awareness. North West Ambulance Service spokesman Tony Dunn said his service has taken the program very seriously, with managers ensuring improved resources for under pressure staff are available.
