Environment Agency

Within England we’re responsible for:

– Regulating major industry and waste

– Treatment of contaminated land

– Water quality and resources

– Fisheries

– Inland river, estuary and harbour navigations

– Conservation and ecology

How does your organisation contribute to preventing suicide and supporting those affected by it?

The wellbeing of our staff is of paramount importance and at the Environment Agency, we believe that all our staff need to work together to keep each other safe and well. Our revised cultural statement focuses on the importance of creating a working environment that supports the wellbeing of our people, ensuring we keep safe and well at work to ensure we become a better organisation that is fit for the future.

We have an Employee Assistance Programme, a Mental Health Network, Mental Health First Aiders and share and encourage our staff to enroll on Suicide Prevention Training. Our Team Leaders are trained to work with staff to develop crisis plans with team members.  We also provide suicide and crisis support to our staff.

But we can do more and by joining the NSPA, we will encourage our staff to feel even more comfortable to reach out for support, talk about their mental health and look out for each other.

What are your current priorities?

– Ensuring our environment is left in a better state for the next generation, than it was when the current generation inherited it.

– Ensuring the quality of our rivers, beaches, air and soils are improved

– Educating the public in the importance of the environment and treating it with respect.

What challenges are you currently facing?

– The impact of COVID19 on our staff mental health

– The impact of COVID19 on the public’s perception on the Environment (fly tipping for example has shot up since March 2020)

– Ensuring the nation is better protected and prepared for effects of climate change for decades to come