Health Minster committed to tackling suicide

The Health Minister has commended the conviction and determination of all those involved in tackling suicide.

Michael McGimpsey was speaking as he officially launched the rebrand of PIPS’ to ‘Lighthouse – Beacon of Hope’.

The Minister said: “Suicide represents a tragic loss of life and it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent this from happening. Since I established Lifeline in January 2008 there have been over 157,000 calls to the service. That’s over 200 calls made to the service every single day from people across Northern Ireland who are in crisis or despair. "

Michael McGimpsey said: “Tackling suicide in our society remains a priority for my Department and I am fully committed to providing ventures such as Lighthouse with the support they need towards helping achieve this goal.

“The funding available for suicide prevention projects has doubled to £6.7million since I became Minister. I want to make sure that communities are provided with the necessary resources to help them tackle the root causes of suicide, which is why almost 50% of the funding is being used to strengthen local community support networks.”

The Minister praised community projects for their role in combating suicide. He said: “The need for enhanced co-ordination across all sectors, and for the development of agreed service standards have been identified as key goals during the ongoing refresh of the Protect Life Strategy.

“The drop-in advice and support that projects like Lighthouse provide, are paramount in helping reduce suicide levels and the devastation that goes with it for bereaved families and friends.

“I wish Lighthouse every success.”

Notes to editors:

1. The decision to rebrand PIPS as “Lighthouse” was agreed at a general meeting of PIPS members. “Lighthouse” will continue to operate out of PIPS’ original premises in Duncairn Gardens.

2. PIPS was named after the son of Philip McTaggart (original founder) who took his own life. Mr McTaggart has stated that he intends to retain the PIPS name. PIPS will also continue to deliver suicide prevention services in North and West Belfast.

3. Press enquiries to the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0575. For Press enquiries out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.