Almost 6,000 people have taken own lives in Scotland over seven years

ALMOST 6,000 people in Scotland took their own lives between

2011 and 2018, according to newly released statistics.

ISD Scotland said 44 per cent contacted paramedics, NHS 24 or out-of-hours GP services in the year before their death.

Its report looking into Scotland’s suicide figures reveals almost one-third (33%) of those who killed themselves had called the Scottish Ambulance Service on at least one occasion before their suicide.

It found the 5,982 people living in Scotland who died by suicide “were significantly more likely to have had contact with an unscheduled care service in the 12 months before death than members of the general population. The report expresses concern that people whose deaths are found to be “definite suicides” rather than “probably suicides” are also less likely to have been in contact with ambulance, NHS 24 or out-of-hours GP services.

It adds: “Health service planners will want to consider possible improvements to the organisation, reach and delivery of services targeted at groups at high risk of suicide, while healthcare providers will want to consider improvements to the identification, engagement and treatment of individuals in these groups.”

Scottish Labour has called for more “joined-up working”.

Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey cited the suicide prevention action plan, which is receiving £3 million funding over five years. “We are working to reduce the rate of suicide in Scotland and are ensuring those affected have access to the right support,” she said.