Suicide prevention drive launched in England amid concern for young people

Ministers pledge to reverse rising deaths and self-harm among young and to aid other at-risk groups

Ministers have vowed to reduce suicide rates in England with the launch of more than 100 new initiatives amid particular concerns over rising deaths and self-harm among children and young people.

The pledge to reverse the trends within two and a half years came as the government launched its first prevention strategy in more than a decade. In 2022, there were 5,275 suicides in England, equivalent to 10.6 suicides per 100,000 people, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Medical experts to review whether reducing the amount of paracetamol people can buy in shops could help bring down suicide rates.

The Department for Education (DfE) to examine whether suicide and self-harm prevention should be part of the school curriculum.

Half of schools in England to have mental health support teams in place by April 2025. The DfE will also offer all state schools and colleges funding to train a senior mental health lead by 2025.

More support for bespoke services to help middle-aged men, who are at a higher risk of suicide, including support and sports groups.

Ensuring pregnant women and new mothers get support at every contact" with health professionals, who will be required to update a risk assessment at each appointment.

Crisis text lines to be rolled out in all areas of England.