Today (March 6) marks the 40th anniversary of the start of the 1984 to 1985 miners’ strike.
The 1984 to 1985 United Kingdom miners’ strike was a major industrial action within the coal industry that aimed to prevent mine closures. The year-long strike started in South Yorkshire; with a walkout at Cortonwood Colliery, near Rotherham.
The 1984 to 1985 strike was unsuccessful. 40 years on, there are no deep coal mines operating in Yorkshire. The coal mines were a major employer within South Yorkshire, with many families having worked for multiple generations in mining.
Although the coal industry has ended, at Sheffield Talking Therapies, we recognise that many people are still living with the legacy and impact of the 1984 to 1985 strike, and the closure of the mines. Employment, community, and family life were all hugely reshaped.
We recognise that for many reasons, the 40th anniversary of the 1984 to 1985 strike will be significant to individuals, families, and communities across South Yorkshire. For many, there will be feelings of pride, for the role they or their family members played in the strike. The anniversary may also bring up a range of difficult emotions such as sadness, grief, and anger.
If you are struggling with any of:
● low mood or depression
● worry or anxiety
● stress
● memories of the strike
● how historic or current challenges in finding or staying in work impacted on your sense of self, or family life
● difficulties sleeping
We encourage people across South Yorkshire to self-refer, or ask a healthcare professional such as your GP, to refer you to Talking Therapies.
Talking Therapies provide a range of free NHS talking therapies for anyone aged 18 or over.
So, if you are feeling down, stressed, anxious, are worrying more than usual or have a lack of interest in doing things that you used to enjoy.
We are here to help.
For more information:
Talking Therapies - Sheffield
Talking Therapies - Doncaster, Rotherham and North Lincolnshire
Talking Therapies - Barnsley
