Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said the reduction in the numbers of suicides during 2007 is encouraging but he acknowledged that there is still much work to be done. The minister also commented that the reduction reflected the early benefits of the partnership working emerging from the ‘Protect Life’ strategy.
Speaking after a meeting with community and voluntary sector groups working in north and west Belfast, the minister praised the invaluable work of everyone involved in implementing the strategy.
He said: “Suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. In the last year, a great deal of work has been taken forward by the voluntary and community sector, in close partnership with government, to implement the ‘Protect Life’ strategy.
“Listening to the experiences of groups, such as those working in north and west Belfast, proves that the strategy is working. I must acknowledge the efforts of these groups, and in particular those bereaved through suicide, for the real difference they are making on the ground, saving lives and supporting people in their local communities.“
During today’s meeting, the group raised a number of issues including the lack of clarity over funding each year which caused great uncertainty for many groups. The Minister said that his Department would work with the four boards urgently so that funding for those voluntary and community sector groups which had demonstrated they had carried out valuable work, can be planned on a sustained basis.
Responding to concerns about a potential lack of funding for suicide prevention work in the north and west Belfast area, the Minister said: “I can give an assurance that funding will continue to be provided towards this vital work.
“Earlier this year I announced £3.5million to run the new regional suicide prevention helpline. This means that a total of more than £6million has now been allocated each year to implement the suicide prevention strategy and take forward a range of initiatives aimed at reducing suicide rates. In addition, £46million will be invested over the next three years in the provision of services in the community for those with mental health needs.
“Figures released today show a 17% reduction in the numbers of suicides. This is to be welcomed but does not mean we can be complacent. It shows that the ‘Protect Life’ strategy is working and I must acknowledge the tremendous efforts of all community and voluntary groups across Northern Ireland in implementing the strategy and helping those in need.”
Notes to Editors:
1. More detailed statistics are available in the full NISRA news release (pdf 228 kb) 
or via the NISRA website.
2. Media queries to DHSSPS Information Office on 028 9052 0571, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
