🟠 A little orange button with an important job

A new scheme has launched across Staffordshire to help ordinary people feel more confident about supporting someone who may be struggling with their mental health.

Staffordshire County Council has introduced the Orange Button scheme, creating a network of trained people who can listen, start a supportive conversation and point someone towards professional help when they need it.

The scheme launched to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day and is open to residents, community groups, organisations and businesses across the county.

People taking part complete free online suicide awareness training and receive an Orange Button badge afterwards. Wearing the badge lets others know they are someone who is prepared to listen and knows where to direct people for further support.

Importantly, Orange Button wearers aren't expected to become counsellors overnight. The idea is to give people the confidence to recognise when somebody might be struggling, have what can sometimes be a difficult conversation, and help them find appropriate support.

It's a simple idea, but one tackling a serious issue.

Around nine people a month lose their lives to suicide across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, according to the county council, with the highest suicide rates among men aged between 40 and 59.

Martin Rogerson, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Care, said many people want to help but worry about saying the wrong thing.

"The Orange Button scheme is designed to give people the confidence to start those conversations and signpost individuals to the support available."

He added: "By creating a visible network of trained people across Staffordshire, we hope to make it easier for residents to access help and know that they do not have to face difficult times alone."

For Burton, that could eventually mean spotting those little orange badges in workplaces, community organisations and businesses around town - a small, visible reminder that somebody nearby is willing to listen.

Want to take part? Residents and organisations can find out more about the free training and Orange Button scheme on the Staffordshire County Council Orange Button page.

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis, or worried about somebody else, can contact NHS 111 and select the mental health option, speak to their GP, or call Samaritans free on 116 123.