£25m bid to tackle loneliness aims to cut toll of suicides

THE PARTS of England worst affected by suicide, including parts of Yorkshire, are to be given a funding boost to enhance prevention services.

Money is to be provided for new targeted awareness campaigns, special psychological support for people in financial trouble and improved selfharm services in a number of regions across England.

Over a threeyear period, £25m will help suicide prevention and reduction schemes across the country. The first areas to receive money are “worst affected” by suicide, officials said. These include: Kent and Medway; Lancashire and South Cumbria; Norfolk and Waveney; South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw; Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire; Cornwall and Isles of Scilly; Coventry and Warwickshire and Durham, Darlington, Teesside, Hambleton, Richmondshire & Whitby.

The investment forms part of a wider government drive to reduce suicide rates. Mental Health Minister Jackie Doyle-Price, inset, said: “Every single suicide is a tragedy – which is why this funding is so vital. “Working with the Samaritans and others in high-risk areas, we will make sure people get the care they need as early as possible, because that is what saves lives.” Duncan Selbie, chief executive at Public Health England, added: “Suicide destroys lives and is devastating for the loved ones they leave behind. We need to do everything we can to offer more help to people in distress and this is a big step towards that.” Claire Murdoch, NHS England’s director for mental health, said the additional funding and prevention plans “will mean more people in crisis will be able to get the crucial support they need”. The Samaritans offer free help through its helpline on 116 123 or email by jo@samaritans.org