New strategy to help prevent suicides in Shropshire

The launch by Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin’s suicide prevention network marked World Suicide Prevention Day.

The day, held each year on September 10, is organised by International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO).

World Suicide Prevention Day aims to raise awareness about suicide prevention and mental health issues.

WHO reports that over 800,000 people worldwide die by suicide each year.

Between 2013 and 2015 there were 131 deaths formally recorded as suicide across Shropshire and Telford.

These numbers are likely to be underestimated due to the legal necessities for categorising a suicide death.

Shropshire’s joint suicide prevention strategy aspires to prevent all deaths from suicide in the region and ensure access to the most appropriate help and support for those considering suicide and for those affected by suicide.

The strategy aims to raise awareness of suicide risk, promote access to support services and encourage more people to talk about self-harm and suicide.

It also aims to provide those who have a public facing role to have confidence in signposting people affected by suicidal thoughts to the services that could best help them.

Councillor Lee Chapman, Telford & Wrekin Council's cabinet member for adult social care, health and housing said: “Suicide is a very sensitive and complex issue. There is no simple explanation for why someone chooses to take their own life and it is rarely due to one particular factor.

"As members of communities, it is everyone’s responsibility to look out for those who may be struggling to cope with day to day life.

“Our region has a suicide rate similar to the national average however more work is needed to support those people who are at risk and those affected by suicide.

“Shropshire’s joint suicide prevention strategy seeks to address this and through Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin’s suicide prevention network we will strive to prevent suicide at all ages. We will ensure those at risk or affected by suicide are signposted to and can access the support and agencies that they require at the right time.”

Councillor Paul Watling, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for children and adults early help and support, said: “The two councils have worked very closely to put this strategy together with the aim of reducing instances of suicide in both areas.

“I hope that a more co-ordinated approach will enable us to reach out to those at risk and encourage people to talk about their feelings.”

For more information about the strategy visit http://www.shropshiretogether.org.uk/mental-health/

Anyone needing support should call the Samaritans 24-hour support service on 116 123 or make an urgent appointment to see their GP.

To access mental health services in Shropshire call 0300 124 0365 or for Telford call 0300 303 1601.