A paediatric occupational therapist at North East London NHS Foundation Trust (NELFT) has been recognised by the London Fire Brigade for her exceptional bravery after helping to save a man in crisis on the A13 East Ham and Barking Bypass flyover above the River Roding.

Tolu Adebayo received an Assistant Commissioner’s Award at a ceremony last Friday at the Brigade’s headquarters, recognising her outstanding public bravery during a life-threatening incident.

Driving with her mum and mother-in-law, Tolu noticed traffic slowing on the A13 and grew concerned after spotting a man in distress on the edge of a bridge. She pulled over, approached police officers and offered her support, spending more than 90 minutes speaking with the man and helping to de-escalate the situation.

During the incident, Tolu remained alongside the man as he made several attempts to jump, at one point physically holding on to him to prevent him from falling. With her support and the coordinated response of emergency services, the man was ultimately brought to safety and received professional care.

Upon receiving the award, Tolu said:

“I’m really shocked to receive this – I honestly just did what anyone should do. I couldn’t walk away when someone needed help.

“He told me about his family, his past and the conflict he’d come from, and in that moment all he could see was a way out. When he asked if we could pray, we stood there together and a police officer joined us – it was such a powerful, human moment.”

London Fire Brigade’s Assistant Commissioner, Andy Pennick, said: 

“These awards are an opportunity for the Brigade to recognise when someone has taken exceptional action on behalf of others, whether they’re a firefighter or member of the public.   

“The actions taken by Tolu certainly meet that criteria. By showing courage, compassion and empathy, her actions undoubtedly saved a life.   

“Their actions embody the highest standards of public bravery. Putting themselves in a stressful and potentially hazardous situation to protect the life of another person, alongside the emergency services, is something that cannot go unnoticed. I’m grateful we’ve been able to recognise them with the commendation.” 

Tolu credits her response to the practical communication and listening skills developed through Mental Health First Aid training, and hopes the incident encourages others to consider learning how to support people experiencing a mental health crisis.

“The training teaches you how to talk to someone in crisis” she says. “You never know when you’ll need it.” 

Follow the link to find out more about Mental Health First Aid training - https://mhfaengland.org/ 

If you are affected by the issues discussed, help is available. You can contact Samaritans on 116 123, or speak to a trusted professional or loved one. If you’re in a mental health crisis, call 111 and press option 2 to speak to a mental health professional. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.