Poorer middle-aged men most at risk from suicide in pandemic, say Samaritans

Charity raises concerns over hidden victims' in a socioeconomic group known to be reluctant to seek help

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Middle-aged men from poor backgrounds have been identified as potential hidden victims" of the Covid-19 pandemic, and urgent government intervention is required to protect them, the Samaritans charity has warned.

Analysing feedback from 1,920 volunteers who have worked for its helpline throughout the lockdown, the charity called on ministers to introduce measures to help protect this group, which it says is the most at risk from suicide, but also the least likely to seek help.