FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector
Iain Hoey
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New UK partnership to provide mental health tools for fire safety sector
The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced a new collaboration with mental health charity Mates in Mind to address wellbeing in the fire safety workforce.
According to the FIA, the partnership was launched to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, which runs from 12 to 18 May and carries the theme of ‘Community’.
The FIA explained that the initiative will provide its members with access to mental health resources, including e-learning modules, guidance materials, and a text support service.
Mates in Mind to deliver mental health training and support
The FIA stated that Mates in Mind will provide tailored programmes and guidance across its membership network.
Mates in Mind is a UK-based mental health charity that works with organisations to reduce stigma and improve understanding of mental wellbeing in the workplace.
Sam Downie, Managing Director at Mates in Mind, said:
“We’re thrilled to be working alongside the FIA.”
“By bringing our tailored support and guidance to such a vital sector, we’re helping to ensure that mental wellbeing is embedded in every layer of workplace culture.”
The FIA said the aim of the programme is to embed awareness into day-to-day operations and create long-term cultural change.
Health and Safety Executive figures show impact of mental ill health
Data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) shows that in 2023/24, stress, depression and anxiety made up 46% of all reported work-related ill health cases.
According to HSE, these issues accounted for 55% of all working days lost to ill health in the same period.
The FIA said these statistics provide context for the need to increase proactive mental health measures within fire protection organisations.
Programme encourages open conversations and community support
The FIA explained that its collaboration with Mates in Mind reflects a commitment to supporting people at every level of the profession.
Steve Simper, FIA Mental Health Champion and Trainer, said:
“Our people are our greatest strength.”
“Together with Mates in Mind, we are creating safe spaces where individuals feel supported to speak up, seek help, and build resilience.”
The association added that it encourages all members to take part in the available programmes and services.
FIA and Mates in Mind launch mental health support for UK fire safety sector: Summary
The Fire Industry Association has partnered with Mates in Mind to support mental health in the UK fire safety sector.
The announcement coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025.
The theme for the week is ‘Community’.
The FIA will provide its members with mental health training, downloadable resources, and access to a support text line.
Mates in Mind will deliver tailored content and guidance for fire safety professionals.
HSE data from 2023/24 showed 46% of work-related ill health cases were due to stress, depression or anxiety.
These cases resulted in 55% of all working days lost in the period.
Sam Downie of Mates in Mind said the partnership will embed wellbeing into workplace culture.
Steve Simper of the FIA said the aim is to create safe spaces for open conversation.
The FIA encouraged its members to participate in the programme.
