A director of BAE Systems in Barrow has joined the board of a Cumbrian community welfare charity.
Safety, Health and Environment director Ian Burns is delighted to be joining Self-harm Awareness for All (SAFA), saying he hopes to make a positive difference to the charity.
Mr Burns, who has worked at BAE Systems’ Barrow site for nearly 34 years, says perceptions of self-harm and a willingness to discuss wellbeing have changed markedly over time.
“There’s a far greater willingness to discuss these issues now. SAFA is assisting around 60 people at any given time, but the demand for help is increasing,” he said. “The work that goes on here has benefits not just for the people who are looking for assistance but their families and workmates too.”
As well as joining the board, Mr Burns and colleagues from BAE Systems are preparing to take part in the annual Keswick to Barrow walk, with SAFA one of the charities which will benefit from their fundraising.
Cindy Daltioni, Chief Executive Officer of SAFA, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ian to the board. Without doubt his experience is a welcome addition to the charity at a time when we’re looking to provide more help and assistance in Furness.”
