The Information Services Division (ISD) has released the information held on the Scottish Suicide Information Database (ScotSID) for suicides between 2011 and 2018, with particular focus on prior contact with unscheduled care services. Those included in the report are NHS 24, the Scottish Ambulance Service and GP Out-of-Hours.
On 09 August 2018 the SNP Government published its new Suicide Prevention Action Plan Every Life Matters. This set out ten measures to reduce the rate of deaths by suicide in Scotland.
To help implement the plan, the SNP Government has set up a National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group (NSPLG), chaired by former Deputy Chief Constable Rose Fitzpatrick. The NSPLG published its first Annual Report in September 2019.
Evidence from previous ScotSID reports has been used to inform the Scottish Government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan and to support the Suicide Prevention Leadership Group. This evidence will be used to inform a range of programmes across the Scottish Government which have interest in distress and suicide prevention.
Commenting on the publication of analysis from the Scottish Suicide Information Database earlier this week, Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey MSP said:
“Every suicide is a tragedy with a far reaching impact on family, friends and communities. Suicide prevention is a key priority for the Scottish Government and requires on-going analysis and research.
“Through our Suicide Prevention Action Plan - supported by £3 million funding over the course of the current Parliament - we are working to reduce the rate of suicide in Scotland and are ensuring that those affected by suicide have access to the right support.
“This report represents a significant contribution to the growing evidence base around suicide in Scotland which will inform current and future policy and activity.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“However difficult it can be to stop people from committing suicide, we must try all we can to support those who see no way out and offer the support they need to help them realise that there is another way.
“Services are changing but the rise in suicides this year shows that there is more to be done.
“In accordance with the Programme for Government, local prevention planning is being supported and more staff will be supported to work with those in crisis and those who have been bereaved by suicide.
“If you personally or someoneyou know is dealing with suicidal thoughts, please contact Samaritans 24/7 at no cost on 116 123. ”
The next release of this publication will be late 2020.
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