Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards have praised the quick thinking of the town’s RNLI lifeguards following a call-out to help a ‘despondent’ person on the town’s seafront on Sunday evening (June 2nd).
Coastguards were called to the seafront just before 8pm amid concerns for the welfare of the person.
“The RNLI Lifeguards were just about to finish for the evening when they spotted a person who was looking over the sea wall,” said a Burnham Coastguard spokesman.
“They approached the person and had a brief chat and realised that there was a concern for the person’s welfare.”
“Staying well beyond their allotted hours, they chatted with the person and contacted the Coastguard Operations Centre in Milford Haven to give them a briefing on the situation that was occurring.”
“They tasked our team and on arrival, we liaised with the Lifeguards who had been keeping a close eye on the person and chatting to them.”
“One of our team members took over and spent some time chatting to the person and getting to know them until Avon and Somerset Police arrived and with their contacts they were able to hopefully get them the help they need for their ongoing issues.”
“For some people, every day can be a struggle dealing with mental health issues, and for many sufferers it can feel that there is no end to their problems.”
“We would like to say a big well done to the lifeguards from the RNLI for their initial spot and for their ongoing care, way beyond their working hours.”
“We hope the person gets the correct help and that they find a way forward in their ongoing battle with this hidden illness.”
“It’s OK not to be OK and just having someone ask could save a life.”
“There are free helplines available for anyone who is struggling emotionally, and sometimes even a chat can relieve some of that pressure. Samaritans are on 116123, Mind are on 0300 123 3393, SANE Mental Health are on 020 3805 1790.”
Photos: The incident underway on Sunday evening on Burnham’s seafront (Photos: Burnham Coastguard / Burnham-On-Sea.com)
