Report will inform future actions on suicide prevention: Nesbitt

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has welcomed the publication of a report on Northern Ireland’s strategy for the prevention of suicide and self-harm.

The report follows an independent review of the Protect Life 2 Action Plan, which was commissioned by the Department of Health to help identify areas where additional priority or new actions should be considered.

Minister Nesbitt said: “The prevention of suicide and self-harm is a complex issue and this report provides a renewed focus on working together across Executive departments, statutory organisations and the community and voluntary sectors to deliver on action. The review conducted extensive research and engagement, including with families who have selflessly shared their personal experiences. This has been critical to informing this report and setting policy direction. I am very grateful to all who have contributed to the review, and to the delivery of the strategy to date.

 “It is clear that the research supports the need for collective action and sustainable funding and investment if the Executive is to deliver on the Protect Life 2 Strategy. My Department will now develop a new draft Action Plan to be taken forward by departments and delivery partners.”

The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Michael McBride said: “As Chair of the Protect Life 2 Steering Group, I welcome this timely review of the strategy and refinement of current actions to ensure we deliver on those of highest priority.”

Aidan Dawson, Chief Executive of the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: “Suicide is preventable, it is not inevitable, so it is important that we as a society work together to encourage people to seek help and get support when they need it. The role of those with lived experience of suicide and community organisations has been invaluable in this review, and in informing how we move forward collaboratively.”

The Review of Protect Life 2 Action Plan : Report and Recommendations is available on the DoH website at Protect Life 2 - Suicide Prevention Strategy | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk).

Notes to editors: 

1. The Protect Life 2 Strategy (2019) was extended by the Department of Health for a further three years to the end of 2027, with the potential for an additional extension to 2029. The Strategy is available on the Department’s website at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/protectlife2
2. The Lifeline helpline is available on 0808 808 8000 24/7 for anyone in distress of despair. Further information is also available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/mental-health-emergency-if-youre-crisis-or-despair.
3. Department of Health media enquiries should be directed to the Department for Health Office via email to pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk.
4. Follow us on Twitter @healthdpt
5. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service for Media Enquiries Only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The Duty Press Officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

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