A small plane crashed after take-off at London Southend Airport on Sunday 13 July. Local support is available for residents who may have witnessed or be affected by this tragic incident.
Dr Jose Garcia, a local GP and steward for mental health said “After witnessing a traumatic event it’s normal to feel shaken, anxious, or unsettled in the days or even weeks that follow. Everyone reacts differently, and there is no “right” way to feel.
“You may experience the below, among other things:
- Flashbacks of what you saw
- Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Heightened anxiety, irritability, or feeling constantly on edge
- Emotional numbness, sadness, or withdrawal from others
- You may feel physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or stomach issues
“These are common responses to trauma, and local support is available to help you cope.”
Where to get help
If you’re struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out:
- Find out about local mental health support services available including Talking Therapies at: Healthy Minds – Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System
- NHS 111 is available 24/7 for confidential advice and support.
- Contact your GP practice – they can discuss with you what is the best support or help available.
Guidance for parents
Children may not always have the words to express how they feel, but changes in their behaviour could be signs of trauma or distress, including
- Trouble sleeping or nightmares
- Clinginess or separation anxiety
- Withdrawal or loss of interest in activities
- Anger or sadness that seems out of the ordinary
If your child has been affected by the incident at London Southend Airport, or you suspect they may be, there are dedicated local support services for children and young people: Young people and mental health – Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System
You can also speak to your GP to discuss your concerns or contact NHS 111 for further advice and support.
Wider help and support
Further information on wider help and support, including a dedicated British Red Cross telephone line for witnesses, is available on the Essex County Council website: Support available following London Southend Airport incident | Essex County Council