Government reveals first Minister of Suicide Prevention

Jackie Doyle-Price is to be the first Minister for Suicide Prevention
Rob Stothard/Getty Images
Jacob Jarvis10 October 2018
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The first Minister for Suicide Prevention in the UK has been appointed and announced to coincide with World Mental Health day.

Conservative MP Jackie Doyle-Price will undertake the position and lead Government work on reducing the number of people taking their own lives.

It is thought to be a world first role and is one of a number of announcements by Theresa May concerning the Government’s handling of mental health.

At a reception for World Mental Health Day on Wednesday, the Prime Minister is set to say: “When I first became Prime Minister, I stood on the steps of Downing Street and pledged to fight the burning injustices in our society.

“There are few greater examples than the injustices facing those with mental health conditions. But together we can change that.

“We can end the stigma that has forced too many to suffer in silence. We can prevent the tragedy of suicide taking too many lives.”

According to the Government's statement, around 4,500 people take their own lives each year in England and suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 45.

Matthew Smith, who led a charge to have a minister appointed to suicide prevention after his brother took his life, welcomed the appointment.

In a video message shared by CALM, the campaign against living miserably, he said: “This announcement can be a huge, huge stepping stone towards preventing suicide.”

The charity also welcomed the move.

The Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, also backed the new position to be a success.

It is one of multiple announcements regarding the Government's plans on mental health
PA

In a statement, he said: “I am delighted we are appointing Jackie Doyle-Price as our dedicated Minister for Suicide Prevention, and I know she will make a real difference.

“Every suicide is a preventable death and we are determined to do everything we can to tackle the tragedy of suicide.”

Other Government moves announced include new support teams and resources in schools, as well as a new annual report on young people’s mental well-being."

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are greeted by Health Secretary Matt Hancock at the Mental Health Summit
PA

There is also set to be up to £1.8million in Government funding made available to the helpline Samaritan’s.

Mr Hancock is hosting the first Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit in London this week.

It will be attended by ministers and representatives from over 50 and also the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

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