15 August 2011
Health and Social Services have set up a helpline following the deaths of 6 people on Sunday after a knife incident in St Helier. It is important that advice and support is readily available for those who feel they need help after Sunday’s tragic incident.
Health and Social Services are working in partnership with The Samaritans to provide a 24 hour service to Islanders who would like advice on what to do if they feel distressed or anxious after the incident.
During working hours contact with the advice and support team from Health and Social Services is available on 444400. Out of hours contact can be made directly with The Samaritans on 08457 909090.
If further specialist support is required out of hours this will be made available through Health and Social Services. The helpline is now up and running, and all calls will be routed through the hospital switchboard and directed to trained professionals who are available for advice and support.
Dr Jake Bowley, who is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist at HSSD said: “After a traumatic incident in the community such as this, it is quite a normal reaction that some Islanders may feel very upset about what has happened, and we want people to know that if they need advice and support then it is available.
"Though for most people these feelings will resolve over a few days or weeks, without having a major impact on their lives. For others, especially people directly involved in the incident, more lasting reactions may go on to affect their day-to-day lives. If you have any serious concerns about how you or someone close to you is being affected by what has happened, please call the helpline, where we can provide free and confidential advice.”
People may also choose to approach their GP for advice and assistance.
Health and Social Services have already made support services available for their staff following yesterday’s incident, should they wish to receive it.
Download coping with a traumatic event leaflet (size 851kb)
gov.je