'10th September is World Suicide Prevention Day . Liberal Democrats Respond to Kent & Medway’s Suicide Rates'
Suicide is a major public health problem with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. It is estimated that there are currently more than 700 000 suicides per year worldwide, and we know that each suicide profoundly affects many more people.
“Creating Hope Through Action” is the triennial theme for the World Suicide Prevention Day from 2021-2023. This theme serves as a powerful call to action and reminder that there is an alternative to suicide and that through our actions we can encourage hope and strengthen prevention.
Kent and Medway are one of eight communities singled out by the Government as "worst affected by suicide, that while suicide rates have fallen since 2014-2016, they remain above the national average”.
We welcomed the consultation, led by ’Transforming Health and Social Care in Kent and Medway’ as part of the ‘Suicide and Self-harm Prevention Strategy 2021-25’, which includes a suicide and self-harm strategy for children and young people.
Alan Wells, Spokesperson for Medway Liberal Democrats said, “It is extremely worrying that the suicide rate in Kent and Medway is above the national average. Every single one of these deaths is a tragedy that devastates families, friends and communities. Liberal Democrats recognise that strategies should be in place locally to help reduce suicide and self-harm in Kent and Medway, among adults and young people.
I know that suicide is not inevitable, and preventable and encouraging steps have been made to prevent suicide, but we need to look at suicide as a serious public health issue in our region. It's important that we do everything we can to help anyone in Kent and Medway struggling with suicidal thoughts and feels there is no other alternative”.
The fact that 67 per cent of people who have died from suicide were not known to secondary mental health services, shows that we still don’t have a comprehensive, cross-departmental government work-plan that prioritises clear actions on how to reach people who are not in touch with mental health services.
The numbers of children and young persons seeking mental health support have risen by 50% in the past 3 years. It is vital that we put in place the help they need now, before it is too late. It is essential that these groups are given the support they need before people reach crisis point. Suicide prevention must be a priority right now, so we can save lives.
"Self-harm must be prioritised by governments and plans should equip young people with effective, healthy coping mechanisms and promote help-seeking by reducing stigma around self-harm" - stated by the Samaritans.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
https://www.emro.who.int/media/news/world-suicide-prevention-day-2023.
Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won’t show up on your phone bill. Or you can visit www.samaritans.org.