MPs launch inquiry into suicide prevention

The government has opened an inquiry into suicide prevention amid rising rates of women taking their own life.

Suicide disproportionately affects men, with male suicides accounting for more than three quarters of all UK suicides in 2014. However, figures from the Samaritans show a 14% increase in female suicide between 2013 and 2014.

Improving support

The Commons health select committee's inquiry will examine what further action should be taken to prevent suicide in primary and secondary care in England, and how to improve support for both sexes.

The committee has invited written submissions regarding factors that may influence the rise in suicide rates, and the social and economic costs of suicide. It also wants to hear about the role of primary care, mental health services and sectors such as emergency departments and psychiatric liaison services.

Best practice

Examples of best practice are also sought, as well as information on the role of local authorities and the police in suicide prevention.

The closing date for submissions is 9 September.

Suicide prevention inquiry