Devon marks World Suicide Prevention Day, urging residents to speak up and check in

People across Devon are being encouraged to talk more openly about suicide and mental health as the county marks World Suicide Prevention Day today (Thursday, 10 September).

Public Health Devon is using the annual awareness day to encourage residents to recognise when someone may be struggling, learn how to have supportive conversations and know where help is available.

This year's theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide", with Devon County Council stating it "encourages open and honest conversations that can help reduce stigma, and create a culture where people feel able to seek help when they need it,"

Devon County Council says suicide remains a significant public-health issue in the county.

The latest figure highlighted by Public Health Devon puts Devon's suicide rate at 13.5 deaths per 100,000 people, which the council says is significantly higher than the England average.

Almost three-quarters of people who die by suicide in Devon are men, according to the council.

Steve Brown, Director of Public Health and Communities at Devon County Council, said suicide prevention was “everybody’s business”.

“We know that talking openly about suicide and mental health can feel difficult, but those conversations can make a real difference,” he said.

Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health, Communities and Equality, Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, said rural communities could face particular challenges.

“As a predominantly rural county, we know that isolation and loneliness can be a reality for many people across Devon, particularly within our farming communities where suicide rates remain a serious concern,” she said.

She also pointed to pressures facing farmers and rural families, including drought and bluetongue.

“I’d encourage everyone to check in with their neighbours, friends and family, and not be afraid to talk openly about how they’re feeling,” Councillor Cottle-Hunkin said.

Events in Plymouth

The issue is also being marked locally in Plymouth, where the city council's Public Health team is holding a World Suicide Prevention Day event today.

The event runs from 12pm to 4.30pm at Methodist Central Hall and is free to attend, although registration is required.

People with lived experience are among those speaking, while local organisations will also be available to discuss suicide prevention and mental-health support.

The council says the event will also look at the challenges facing children and young people and future plans for making Plymouth a “suicide safer city”.

A second free event is being held tomorrow (Friday, 11 September), from 12pm to 4pm at Burrington Hub at All Saints Academy.

The drop-in session is intended to provide a space for confidential conversations about suicide and mental health, and no booking is required.

Plymouth City Council says an average of 20 to 30 people die by suicide in the city each year, with many more family members, friends and colleagues affected by a death.

Councillor Maria Lawson, the council's Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Behind every suicide statistic is a person, a family and a community whose lives are changed forever.”

Support is available

Public Health Devon says people who are struggling, or concerned about someone else, can access support.

The Devon First Response Service provides 24-hour crisis support for adults through NHS 111.

The Samaritans can also be contacted free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, on 116 123.

Public Health Devon has produced an “It's OK to Talk About Suicide” guide and a Safety Plan resource, designed to help people find sources of support during difficult periods.

World Suicide Prevention Day takes place every year on 10 September.