Royal College of Psychiatrists’ President, Professor Sue Bailey,
today (Monday 10 September) welcomed the publication of ‘Preventing
suicide in England’, a new cross-government strategy.
Prof Bailey said: “This strategy should lead
to more information and support for those at risk of and affected
by suicide and I welcome any concerted activity aimed at reducing
the number of people who take their own lives.
“Coming on World Suicide Prevention Day, it
draws attention to the terrible sense of waste and loss that
follows any suicide and highlights the vital work of health and
social care professionals and the voluntary sector."
To coincide with World Suicide Prevention day,
the Royal College of Psychiatrists, together with Open Minds
Alliance CIC and Samaritans, is leading a coalition of more than
100 UK organisations to spread the message that it is possible to
overcome suicidal thoughts and feelings and that there are many
resources available to help those who are struggling to cope.
It is supporting U Can Cope (http://ucancope.org/), which has
produced a film featuring a number of testimonials from men and
women who at some point in their lives felt suicide was their only
option, but who found help and support. You can watch the film on
the RCPsych YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/rcofpsychiatrists.
For further information please
contact Gary Ward, Temporary Media & Communications Manager,
Royal College of Psychiatrists.
Tel: 020 7235 2351 ext 6298;
email: gward@rcpsych.ac.uk
For further information, please
contact:
Liz Leicester
or Deborah Hart in the Communications
Department.
Telephone: 020 7235 2351 Extensions. 6298 or 6127