‘Everyone has problems’

Colleagues are being reminded of the positive effect that simply reaching out, opening up and speaking to people who may be suffering from behavioural changes – a sign of a decline in mental health – can have.

The prompt comes from Sandra Roberts, who is looking to raise awareness around mental health and suicide, particularly in men.

Her mission has been inspired by her brother, Wrexham postman Brian Roberts, 50, who tragically took his own life earlier this year.

‘He was a super brother,’ said Sandra. ‘He inspired me in loads of ways – he was really talented, an accomplished artist.

‘He started with Royal Mail on a temporary basis; 25 years later he was still there.

‘We didn’t know that there was anything wrong with him because he always used to say he was OK. He had the most incredible laugh, which I really, really miss and a cheeky smile as well.’

Sandra says that friends, family and colleagues should not take it for granted that somebody is OK.

‘We did, and unfortunately we had a complete tragedy,’ said Sandra. ‘It can be prevented if people reach out for help to anywhere, even their GP.

‘People need to reach out. If you notice the slightest bit of change in behaviour in someone, I’m urging people to take notice. There’s an awful lot you can do to help a person.’

Sandra is passionate about reducing the stigmas associated with mental health. She added: ‘I don’t think it should have a stigma. Everyone has a mind, everyone has problems. Anyone can slip into this same situation that my brother did.’

Wrexham delivery line manager, Kevin Pemberton, said: ‘Brian had more than 20 years’ service and was a much-loved member of the team. Brian’s life was a blessing and his memory a treasure. He will be sadly missed by many.’

• Sandra has started a fundraising campaign to benefit North East Wales MIND – a local branch of a charity that helps those experiencing mental anguish, but also supports their families.
• To support Sandra, go to her fundraising page in Brian’s memory at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/22cc6w3epc.

Support is available for those who need it

• First Class Support is free and confidential for colleagues and includes direct access to counselling services. Call 0800 6888 777, visit www.rmgfirstclasssupport.co.uk or download the ‘Lifeworks’ app. New users of the website/app can ‘sign up’ using a unique invitation code, which is RMG- and then your payroll number, e.g. RMG-12345678.
• Shout Mental Health Text Service: Free and available 24/7 - text Shout to 85258 in the UK.
• For urgent support in a crisis: call the Samaritans on 116 123 (open 24/7) or in the case of a suicide or other emergency situation, ring 999, or 9999 from a Royal Mail landline.