Download BS 30480: The Free Guide to Building a Suicide-Aware Workplace
Suicide doesn't stay outside the workplace door. And when it affects a workplace, organisations that haven't prepared are left responding in the moment, without the policies, language, or processes to do it well.
The problem
Most organisations have no formal approach to suicide. Not because they don't care, but because the topic has long felt too difficult to address head-on.
The result is fragmented policies, managers who don't know what to say, and a workforce left without adequate support when it's needed most.
With suicide being one of the leading causes of death among working-age adults in the UK, employers have both a duty and an opportunity to make a real difference. The question isn't whether it will affect your workplace, but whether you'll be prepared when it does.
The standard
Developed with input from more than 70 organisations and individual experts, including leading mental health charities, healthcare professionals, academics, and policymakers, BS 30480 provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to help organisations plan for, respond to, and support people affected by suicide or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
The standard covers:
- Building workplace policies and a culture where suicide can be spoken about openly and safely
- How to ask about suicide when you have concerns – and what to do next
- Specific advice and checklists for managers
- Communicating sensitively with staff, families, and stakeholders after a loss
- Monitoring and reviewing your approach so it remains effective over time
BS 30480 was launched at the Houses of Commons in November 2025. It has since been included in the Department of Health and Social Care's Men's Health Strategy and downloaded more than 12,500 times.
Most recently, it has been highlighted by the Prime Minister, who said, "This guidance reminds us that every part of society has a role to play in suicide prevention. And it is really positive that so many businesses are putting it into practice, and I'm pleased to raise awareness of it and to encourage others who've not seen it yet to look closely at it, and follow it."
Who is it for?
This standard is essential reading if you are responsible for:
- Health, safety, or wellbeing in your organisation
- HR, people management, or employee support
- Managing teams or line managing staff
- Developing workplace policy around mental health, wellbeing, absence or sick leave
Or simply want to look out for the people around you at work.
Download the standard
Fill in your details in the form to access your free copy of BS 30480. If you opt in to hear from us, we'll also send you practical guidance on how to implement the standard in your organisation.
