St Helens Borough Council Cabinet set to approve suicide prevention report
St Helens Borough Council's cabinet is set to approve a report on suicide prevention at its upcoming meeting, following an in-depth review carried out by the Adult Social Care and Health Scrutiny Committee.
Article date: 28 August 2025
The report, developed by a Task and Finish Group with support from health partners, examines the rates of suicide in St Helens and puts forward a series of recommendations to strengthen local prevention efforts. It will be presented to cabinet for approval, with a formal response to be provided to the scrutiny committee in October.
The review was launched after council monitoring reports highlighted a concerning upward trend in suicides, particularly in the period following the COVID-19 pandemic. While significant progress had been made in recent years through schools, workplaces, and community initiatives, rates in St Helens continue to be high, reflecting wider pressures linked to the cost-of-living crisis and existing health inequalities in the borough.
Evidence gathered during the review highlighted the profound impact of suicide on families and communities, with more than 100 people estimated to be affected by each life lost. The task group heard from councillors, public health officers, NHS providers, Healthwatch, and community representatives to develop its findings. Members considered local and national data, the existing Suicide Prevention Strategy, and current crisis support services provided by partners including Mersey Care.
The resulting recommendations and action plan focus on enhancing suicide awareness training, strengthening crisis response models, and ensuring coordinated, evidence-based action across agencies.
Councillor Andy Bowden, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Health, said:
"Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy that deeply affects families and communities. This report is an important step in strengthening our borough-wide approach to prevention, working closely with health partners, schools, employers and community groups. By acting on these recommendations and continuing to look for further improvements, we can build on existing progress and make sure people get the right support at the right time."
Cabinet will be asked to note the findings and commit to delivering a full response later this year.
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