The Department for Health and Social Care has announced that it is committing funding to support those who are struggling with their mental health.
Through the Suicide Prevention VCSE Grant Fund, £10 million is being invested in suicide prevention measures across 79 organisations. The Fund was announced in the 2023 Autumn Statement and is part of the government’s aim to prevent self-harm and suicide and to save lives. The fund aims to support charities that face increased demand for suicide prevention services or support innovation in how suicides can be prevented around the country.
Maria Caulfield, Minister for Mental Health, commented:
“Every suicide is a tragedy which leaves a terrible mark on the families and communities affected.
“Non-profit organisations play a hugely important role in supporting people with their mental health and preventing suicide in England.
“This new funding will support people who need it the most and build on the brilliant work happening across the country on suicide prevention.”
Every region in the country is being covered by this funding, as charities of all sizes are given the ability to expand their local support, much of which is done through partnerships and alliances. One such charity that will benefit from the investment is James’ Place Charity, which will utilise the funding to prevent men dying by suicide in Liverpool, Newcastle and London.
National advisor for the Suicide Prevention Strategy Professor Sir Louis Appleby added:
“The new funding is in recognition of the role of voluntary organisations large and small in suicide prevention.
“They offer support to people in crisis or on the margins of society because of poverty, disability, or prejudice. They often work alongside the NHS but in settings where many who need help feel more comfortable.
“The new Government strategy says that bringing down the suicide rate is a national priority, and the ability of the voluntary sector to reach people at risk is vital.”
As part of the government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy, more than 10 measures are being committed to, ranging from early intervention and prevention to targeted and more proactive support for those that are in crisis.
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