Facts have emerged to show that no fewer than 4,820 people commit suicide across the United Kingdom every year, even as a member of the Parliament described it as “unacceptable,” insisting that ministers should consider strategies to help bring down the numbers.
Tory MP and committee chairwoman, Sarah Wollaston said: “4,820 people are recorded as having died by suicide in England last year, but the true figure is likely to be higher. This means 5,000 people per month, 160 per day and nine people per hour.
“Suicide is preventable and much more can and should be done to support those at risk. I hope to see the most important messages from witnesses to our inquiry taken into account by the Government in their renewed suicide prevention strategy.
“The committee will scrutinize the updated strategy and then hold a follow-up hearing before publishing a full report.”
The Commons Health Committee suggested restricting access to “harmful internet content” which might encourage people to take their own lives.
Wider help for public mental health services and targeted support for at-risk groups through early intervention should also be prioritized, MPs who are part of the committee urged.
Those bereaved by suicide should also receive better primary and secondary care.
This was even as the committee had said media guidelines on the reporting of suicide are being widely ignored and greater attention should be paid to breaches of the rules. [myad]
