Cumberland Council publishes new suicide prevention report

Cumberland Council has published a report looking at the risks of suicide in the region and ways of preventing it.

"The Big Question: Understanding Suicide in Cumberland" looks at suicide, self-harm, and support needs in the area.

Cumberland Council conducted surveys and interviews with almost 800 residents to gain an insight from those affected by suicide.

It was commissioned due to concerns over higher-than-average suicide rates in Cumberland.

The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) data (October 2025 release) shows the suicide rate in England is 10.9 per 100,000 people.

In Cumberland, the rate is 19.4 per 100,000.

The findings

Key findings of the report include:

• One in five respondents reported having attempted suicide.
• Younger adults face higher risks, with older adults less likely to receive support.
• Men are less likely to seek help, while women often report suicidal thoughts or attempts without follow-up care.
• Over half of respondents have been impacted by suicide.

Future efforts

Cumberland Council say they're working on suicide prevention through local research, multi-agency partnerships, community awareness, and stigma-reduction initiatives.

Future efforts will focus on three key themes under the Zero Suicide Cumberland vision:

• Real Voices: Focusing on lived experiences and destigmatizing suicide
• Education and support: Treating mental health with the same importance as physical health, improving access to training and support
• Stronger Partnerships: Enhancing collaboration with health partners and community organisations

The Council will prioritise support for at-risk groups, including young adults, older people, men, and gender-diverse residents, as well as addressing urban and rural inequalities.

Improved community training to recognise warning signs and connect people to support, alongside better bereavement support, will also be included.

Anyone struggling or concerned about someone else can access support through local services, GPs, or national helplines like Samaritans at 116 123.

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