Reach Out for Mental Health

Reach Out for Mental Health (ROFMH) offers relief from suicidal thoughts and feelings through the delivery of open and non-judgemental emotional support. We aspire to a time when this service is no longer needed. It was set up to support individuals who were feeling suicidal, overwhelmed or just wanted to speak to someone if they’d had a bad day. It is a listening service operated by volunteers fully trained in suicide prevention offering individuals a non-clinical environment to speak to someone in a confidential, non-judgemental and respectful manner.

Our work in suicide prevention

We operate 3 hubs in the community where people can come and speak to a fully trained volunteer on a one to one basis. All access to the service is made through an appointment system. For those unable to access the hubs in the community we’re also available on the phone, via email and text. We’re available 46 hours per week. We also accept referrals from organisations such as social workers, GP’s or anyone concerned about another person.

Our current priorities

Reach Out for Mental Health (ROFMH) provides a confidential, non-clinical space for individuals to talk, reflect, and be heard. The organisation is committed to reducing the stigma surrounding suicide, educating and empowering communities to support those in crisis, and challenging outdated beliefs about how to address suicidal feelings.

ROFMH offers Gatekeeper training for individuals who work with those at high risk of suicide, equipping them with the confidence and skills to provide effective support. Believing in empowerment and trust, ROFMH helps individuals develop tools for recovery and for managing potential future challenges.

Based in Essex, ROFMH supports individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts and aims to expand its reach across the South East and beyond with increased funding, support from local authorities and CCGs, and partnerships with like-minded organisations. ROFMH remains committed to offering its services free of charge to all who need them.

Our current challenges

Our challenge is opening the minds of organisations who operate in a risk averse way, which can actually be more damaging to an individual. We still have a long way to go in challenging attitudes and beliefs about how best to support someone who is suicidal. Although we have come a long way to educating people and organisations about the amazing outcomes which can be achieved through a non clinical approach and the importance of developing a truly respectful and trusting reciprocal relationship.