CIAS Backs mental health drive as missing person searches rise

Thursday, 18 June 2026 07:10

By Holly Brown

President of Guernsey Friends of Air Search, David Hugo, Accountable Manager for CIAS, Nick Griffin, and Guernsey Mind’s Jo Cottell and Amanda Hibbs.

A mental health awareness campaign called "We See You" is launching in the Channel Islands.

Channel Islands Air Search (CIAS) is partnering with Guernsey Mind and Mind Jersey to encourage more open conversations about mental health.

The three organisations hope the "We See You" initiative will help islanders find support before problems reach a crisis point and require an emergency callout.

Nick Griffin from CIAS says over the past five years, close to half of all CIAS missions involved searching for missing people.

"When our aircraft is deployed, it means someone is in real difficulty.

"42% of our recent missions have involved searching for missing people, and behind every one of those callouts are family members, friends and a community who care deeply.

"Through 'We See You', we want to reinforce that emergency services are often the last line of support.

"Prevention and awareness can help reduce the need for searches and ultimately save lives."

12.1% of respondents to the 2023 Guernsey and Alderney Wellbeing Survey reported low mental health - while 43% of 16–24-year-olds reported feeling intensely socially lonely.

Chief Executive of Guernsey Mind, Jo Cottell, says there is a wide range of help and support available across the Channel Islands.

"We know from talking to people who contact us at Guernsey Mind that the causes of poor mental health vary widely.

"There may be one reason, but more often it's a combination of factors, including loneliness, relationship or money worries, work pressure or physical health challenges.

"Reaching out for help early is the best way to help recovery."

For mental health support, you can contact Guernsey Mind at info@guernseymind.org.gg or call 01481 722959

CIAS relies on public support and donations to remain operational.