27.01.14
NSPA launched to improve suicide prevention
A new alliance has been launched to reduce the number of suicides in England and to improve support for those affected. The National Suicide Prevention Alliance (NSPA) is formed of the Department of Health, Samaritans and Rethink Mental Illness.
With a £120,000 government grant, the alliance will work together over two years to raise awareness, deliver a commitment to suicide prevention, share good practice and improve support for those at risk of suicide, those worried about a relative or friend and those bereaved by suicide.
The alliance will develop support materials for local authorities and help to establish a shared position and course of action on suicide. A report will also be commissioned to identify nationally available suicide prevention training.
Care services minister Norman Lamb MP said: “Losing a loved one to suicide is a tragedy and we are committed to reducing deaths from suicide and improving mental health across the country. That is why we have recently published a mental health action plan to drive services to improve faster, announced new plans for helping people attending A&E who self-harm and published a new agreement to improve information and support for families who are concerned about a relative who may be at risk of suicide.
“It is vital these partners work together to make a real impact in reducing suicide and supporting those affected by it. This partnership will create a real opportunity to make sure we are working together more effectively to make this happen.”
Hamish Elvidge, co-chair of the National Suicide Prevention Alliance said: “Suicide is preventable. The new National Suicide Prevention Alliance will help build awareness and influence and assist in the sharing of best practice. Most importantly it will help rally action so that fewer lives are lost by suicide.”
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