The Department of Health of England has launched a new cross-government strategy ‘Preventing suicide in England’ on World Suicide Prevention Day.
This suicide prevention strategy builds on the successes of the 2002 suicide prevention strategy and targets all ages. Real progress has been made in reducing suicide rates to record low levels in England but there are new challenges to be addressed and in a time of economic crisis, it was felt particularly timely to revisit the national strategy.
The new strategy has been informed by a consultation on the draft suicide prevention strategy in 2011.
The strategy supports action by gathering knowledge about groups at higher risk of suicide, using evidence-based methods and highlighting resources available. This in order to support local decision-makers, while respecting the autonomy of local organizations.
The strategy is backed by a call to action led by the Samaritans and up to £1.5 million for new research. The U Can Cope campaign, to support and promote the 2012 World Suicide Prevention Day, is being led by Open Minds Alliance CIC, Samaritans, the Royal College of Psychiatrists and Southwick Media Consultancy.
Read the Health Department’s press notice.
Read supporting documents for the strategy:
• Assessment of impact on equalities
• Prompts for local leaders on suicide prevention