Ben Corr, a bus driver with Stagecoach Midlands in Leicester, has been honoured with the company's Star of the Month award after he intervened to help a man who was threatening to take his own life. Corr stopped his bus when he spotted a man on a bridge in an apparent suicide attempt, and he calmly engaged the man in conversation, even offering him some of his own food as a gesture of comfort and support. Throughout the incident, Corr kept his passengers informed as the situation unfolded. The award, which includes a certificate and a gift voucher, was presented by operations director Kam Gill.
Heroic Actions Recognised by Stagecoach Midlands
Mark Whitelocks, managing director of Stagecoach Midlands, praised Corr's actions in a statement. “I am very proud of everything that Ben was able to do - he really proved himself to be a hero in a hugely challenging situation,” he said. “This was a truly excellent display of his good character; he reacted with quick-thinking, calm and professionalism, as well as great use of the observation skills that we train our drivers to have.” Whitelocks also linked the incident to the company's values, noting that “One of our Values is that we 'support our communities' and this just goes to show the dedication that our colleagues, across the region, have for providing the best possible service to local people in our communities.” He added, “We also say that 'we've got you' and this was a wonderful example of that ethos in action.”
Impact on Community and Mental Health Support Resources
Stagecoach Midlands regularly rewards such acts of heroism, and this recognition underscores the importance of community support in times of crisis. The incident also highlights the availability of mental health support services for those in distress. Several helplines and support networks are available, as listed on the NHS Choices website: Samaritans (116 123) operates a 24-hour service every day of the year, with email support at jo@samaritans.org. CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) at 0800 58 58 58 runs a UK helpline and webchat from 5pm to midnight 365 days a year. PANDAS (0808 1961 776) offers a free helpline for perinatal mental illness support. Childline (0800 1111) provides help for children and young people, with free calls that do not appear on phone bills. PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) supports teenagers and young adults feeling suicidal. Mind (0300 123 3393) offers advice and support for anyone experiencing mental health problems. Students Against Depression is a website for students with depression or suicidal thoughts. Family Lives supports those affected by bullying. Amparo (0330 088 9255, www.amparo.org.uk) provides emotional and practical support for anyone affected by suicide. The Hub of Hope is a national mental health support database, accessible via app, at hubofhope.co.uk, or by texting SHOUT to 85258.
For more information on local bus routes and services, passengers can download the Stagecoach Bus App. This recognition of Corr's bravery serves as a reminder of the vital role that public transport workers can play in their communities, and it encourages others to seek help when needed.
