SOS Silence of Suicide launches free training to help save lives
Nearly one in three people surveyed (29%) in Scotland say they or a family member have been affected by suicide, according to a new survey by SOS Silence of Suicide. The charity says the numbers underline the urgent need for everyday suicide prevention skills in communities across the nation.
Respondents were asked whether they or a family member had been impacted by suicide. Across the UK, Scotland reports the lowest impact of the four nations at 29% and Northern Ireland reports the highest with 39%. This compares with 33% in Wales and 30% in England.
The results also revealed a generational divide, with young adults particularly vulnerable. UK-wide findings show almost half (46%) of 18–24-year-olds surveyed said suicide has touched their lives, double the rate of those aged 55 and over (23%).
To tackle this silent crisis head-on, SOS is today urging people across Scotland to take its new free mental health training course – OPEN Conversations – designed to give everyone the tools to help prevent suicide.
This training is only one part of the charity’s mission. With suicide rates still rising despite years of support and campaigning, SOS says prevention must begin in the everyday moments where someone might first show they’re struggling.
By encouraging people to recognise that we all share responsibility for looking out for one another, the charity wants to ensure help reaches people long before they reach a crisis point.
OPEN Conversations teaches individuals to notice the signs someone may be struggling, to respond with confidence rather than fear, and to provide vital support. And crucially, no prior expertise is required.
Lorna Hackett, Trustee at SOS Silence of Suicide, commented: “These figures are heartbreaking. It shows us that for too many people across Scotland, suicide is not a distant tragedy but a devastating reality. Too many lives are being lost too soon.
“SOS has been fighting the silence and stigma of speaking about suicide for 10 years, and we are now saying clearly that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. We must rethink how we respond. We want to change the narrative so that checking in, caring and noticing the signs become everyday actions, not specialist skills.”
Lorna continued: “You don’t need to be a mental health professional to save a life. Sometimes, all it takes is being willing to have an uncomfortable conversation, to ask the difficult questions and to listen without judgement. OPEN Conversations enables people to do exactly that.
“This course can be completed in a lunch break – it only takes up to one hour – and will give you the confidence that could interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts and change their trajectory forever. The silence is quite literally killing us; conversation is the medicine.”
Marking its 10th anniversary this year, SOS has spent a decade challenging stigma and supporting those in crisis. Its new training offers practical guidance for friends, colleagues, neighbours and family members.
The OPEN Conversations course is free and available to complete via SOS’s website:
The survey was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of SOS Silence of Suicide in October 2025, with a nationally representative sample of 3,000 UK adults.
With Friday 10 October marking World Mental Health Day, community group, Lothians Speak Their Name, have shared the ‘powerful’ effect that art has had since the passing of their loved ones.
A recent survey by the National Galleries of Scotland found that 84% of total visitors to the galleries felt their visit had a positive impact on their wellbeing.
Co-director of Lothians Speak Their Name, Sue Henderson, says she has seen and experienced first-hand the positive impact art can have on mental health.
The group, which was originally set up to create a quilt in memory of people who have died by suicide in Edinburgh and the Lothians, have been regularly visiting exhibitions and displays at the National Galleries of Scotland ever since.
Having visited for almost a year, Sue shares how it has been an incredibly valuable experience for helping the group to navigate their loss.
Sue said: “We have loved coming to the galleries so much, for some it has been powerfully beneficial.
“The tours, led by Duncan Robertson at the National Galleries of Scotland, are brilliant, for that short time it allows people to just disconnect from all the pain of their grief. It gives a moment of distraction.
“There are people in our group who never came to the gallery before, they didn’t think it was for them, but to see the impact it has on them is just incredible. Whether listening to the amazing stories of the art or just getting lost for a moment, it really can have healing powers.
“Seeing the effect it has on members of the group is so striking. One woman who lost her son to suicide, got completely lost in the art and it gave her a moment of relief from the day to day pain.
“I had never seen it be so demonstrable before, the power of art and how it can offer a distraction from the worst imaginable grief. People in the group have shared how the art can take them out of themselves and what a beautiful distraction it is.”
Art plays a significant role in enhancing mental health by providing therapeutic benefits, fostering emotional expression, and promoting overall well-being. It has been proven that art can evoke feelings of joy, nostalgia or even sadness, which can be therapeutic for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.
Over the past 20 years research on the impact of the arts on health has been growing and in 2019 the World Health Organization (WHO) published a report called ‘What is the evidence on the role of the arts in improving health and well-being?’.
The report looked at over 3000 studies from around the world which concluded that the arts play a major role in preventing and managing health. It identified the contribution that the arts may have in promoting good health and health equity, preventing illness, and treating acute and chronic conditions across the life-course.
This has launched further studies by WHO and the Jameel Arts & Health Lab in 2023 on the health benefits of the arts. As well as the Lancet Global Series Photo Essay which findings re-iterate the crucial importance of creativity within the sphere of health, and the evidence-based health benefits catalysed by imagination.
Research by the John Hopkins University School of Medicine even found that spending just 30 minutes in an art gallery once a month could extend your life expectancy by 10 years.
Siobhan McConnachie, Head of Learning and Engagement at National Galleries of Scotlandsaid: ‘We are fortunate that we get to see the positive effect that art can have on people every single day in the gallery.
“But we know, and research shows, that art can do more than just put a smile on our faces, it can have real lasting impact on overall mental and physical health.
“We regularly welcome groups supporting people living with dementia, addiction recovery groups, health and wellbeing groups, mental health communities and so much more.
“It is important that art is considered holistically as a tool that can be used for early intervention and social prescribing in health, education and social care sectors.
“The power of art is truly incredible, and we are so delighted to have groups like Lothians Speak Their Name feel that in our galleries.’
Sue shared how the group have benefited from using art as a tool to connect with other people who are going through similar experiences. Brought together to make the memorial quilt, 49 people have made squares in memory of their loved ones, which hold the stories of their loves and lives.
As well as creating this beautiful memorial, it has brought people together as a community, where they’ve found support and friendship.
Sue added: “Our group was born out of the idea of making a quilt which remembers those we loved. Each square would represent someone in a positive way who was loved and lost, whether it included the things they loved or a fond memory of them.
“Some people in the group had never done anything like this but everyone felt how therapeutic it was to focus on something positive about their loved ones lives.
“There is something about being involved in a group activity together, whether creating the quilt or visiting the galleries. In the group everyone has experience of loss but that wasn’t the always the focus when we got together, the focus was also on creativity.
“There was never any pressure to talk about our losses. But what we found was that when everyone was distracted making their squares or looking at the art, conversations happened a lot more easily because the art was offering something else to focus on at the time.
“Often memories come with nothing but pain, but using art and creativity allowed everyone to remember the things they loved about the person, or to remember the good times.
“There are of course people who would come along, and they would never talk about their loss and that was okay too, because they still got to be in a room of people who understood what they were going through and that was support enough. They could come along and just immerse themselves in the task of creating the square.
“It was after we started making the squares that we reached out the galleries, and they offered us tours of exhibitions and displays. This just opened a whole new level of what we were doing. Some members of the group got really immersed in the visits and seeing the art offered inspiration.
“People have re-discovered their creative side and found a way to express themselves.
“Whether seeing or doing art I do believe it has a healing power. The fact we get to see the positive effect it can have on people is what I love most about this, it is an absolute privilege. So, I do really believe that art can be empowering for people dealing with mental health.”
The completed quilt has been touring around various locations in hope is that the individuals and lives it remembers will inspire viewers to start conversations about mental health and suicide and to reach out if they themselves are struggling.
It is currently one of 11 quilts on display at an exhibition in the Houses of Parliament in London.
If interested in getting involved in creating a square, please contact:
As well as running regular tours for groups such as Lothians Speak Their Name, National Galleries of Scotland also warmly invites community groups, care homes and charities to book free visits to the galleries at a time that suits them.
Activities include guided tours of the collection and exhibitions, online art discussions, dementia-friendly sessions with specific themes, and bespoke tours tailored to the needs of each group
Minister for Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur says a fall in the number of probable suicides last year makes him more determined to continue expanding and improving prevention work.
Official statistics from National Records of Scotland show the number of probable suicides in 2024 was 704 – a decrease of 11% compared to 2023 and the lowest number since 2017.
Visiting The Neuk mental health crisis centre in Perth, Mr Arthur said: “These figures remind us of how vital it is to support those who are struggling with their mental health.
“Every person lost to suicide is someone’s loved one and when someone takes their own life, the impact on everyone around them is devastating. My sympathy is with all those affected by the loss of a family member or friend through suicide.
“The decline in the number of probable suicides is encouraging, but we will not be complacent. Our aim is for anyone, regardless of age, who has thoughts of taking their own life, or is affected by suicide, to get the help they need.
“Together with COSLA and our partners, Suicide Prevention Scotland, we are driving forward our 10-year Suicide Prevention Strategy to deliver on our ambition to reduce suicide deaths in Scotland.
“At its heart is tackling the underlying factors and inequalities which cause suicide and supporting people most at risk including those living in poverty, middle aged men and those in rural areas.
“We increased our investment in suicide prevention to £2.8 million for the current financial year, meeting our commitment to double the suicide prevention budget in the current parliamentary term.
“We are committed to building a Scotland where everyone feels valued, supported, and connected. We will continue to listen, learn, and act – guided by evidence and compassion.”
Councillor Paul Kelly, COSLA Health and Social Care Spokesperson, said: “Behind these statistics are individuals, families and communities deeply impacted by suicide.
“Local Government and our partners have a vital role in improving mental health and wellbeing across Scotland. We’re committed to enhancing our ongoing suicide prevention efforts to create conditions where no one feels they must take their own life.
“COSLA will continue working with the Scottish Government to deliver our joint ‘Creating Hope Together’ strategy. This includes tackling inequality across all public services – from schools and workplaces to community services.”
Wendy Given, Chief Operational Officer at The Neuk, said: “At The Neuk, we see the ripple effects of suicide every day and we are here to provide a safe, compassionate space where people in crisis are listened to, supported, and shown compassion.
“Services like ours must remain visible, valued, and sustainable, so that hope and connection are always within reach.”
The Neuk’s lead wellbeing mentor Louise McQueen said: “Working at The Neuk is more than a job, it’s being part of a community where every conversation can change a life.
“I’ve seen people walk through our doors at their lowest point and leave with hope. Being able to listen, connect, and support someone in that moment of crisis is a privilege, and it reminds me every day why this place matters.”
Anyone affected by these issues can access support from the following services:
Sir Wyn Williams published the first volume of his final report yesterday (08/07/25), calling for urgent action to be taken to ensure full and fair compensation is delivered to sub-postmasters affected by the Horizon scandal.
Laid before Parliament on Tuesday, Sir Wyn makes 19 urgent recommendations to resolve issues that are hindering full and fair redress, including that:
The Government and the Post Office should agree on a definition of ‘full and fair’ compensation, and this should be followed when deciding the level of compensation to offer.
Horizon Shortfall Scheme claimants should receive legal advice, funded by the Government.
Close family members of people affected by the Horizon scandal should receive compensation.
The Government should create a standing public body which will create, administer, and deliver schemes for giving financial redress to people who have been wronged by public bodies.
Fujitsu, Post Office and the Government should publish a report by 31 October 2025, outlining a programme for restorative justice (or the actions they’ve taken so far to produce this programme).
Sir Wyn says he expects the Government (and where appropriate Post Office and Fujitsu) to provide a written response to his recommendations by 10 October 2025.
Human Impact of the scandal
In the 162-page report, the Chair also details the scale of the suffering endured by those affected by the Horizon scandal.
Through 17 carefully chosen illustrations, Sir Wyn recounts how some people became seriously ill, struggled with mental health problems including alcohol addiction, and faced financial impacts such as bankruptcy.
He details how some people experienced reputational impacts or sadly passed away before receiving compensation. Elsewhere, he also highlights how some sub-postmasters were held liable for small amounts of money allegedly lost to the Post Office, while others were wrongly imprisoned.
Sir Wyn’s findings in the report are based on hearings and evidence submitted up until 6 June 2025. This spans around 225 days of hearings, 298 witnesses, with around 274,600 documents disclosed to Core Participants.
“Full, fair and prompt” redress
Sir Wyn writes that, despite the Government and Post Office appearing to show a genuine desire to provide redress which is full and fair, and delivered promptly, there have been “formidable difficulties in the way of achieving those aims”.
Considering each of the four redress schemes in turn, Sir Wyn finds that claimants to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme did not receive full and fair redress.
Sir Wyn writes: “I am persuaded that in the difficult and substantial claims, on too many occasions, the Post Office and its advisors have adopted an unnecessarily adversarial attitude towards making initial offers which have had the effect of depressing the level at which settlements have been achieved.”
He also discusses how a ‘fear factor’ has been removed from the Horizon Shortfall Scheme Appeals process. This is because every claimant who chooses to have a claim assessed may appeal the offer made “safe in the knowledge that there is no risk of losing a prior better offer.”
Considering this, he questions why this ‘fear factor’ has not been removed for sub-postmasters who must choose whether to take the fixed term offer or have a compensation assessment.
He writes: “Why is it appropriate to remove the fear factor from the HSSA but rigidly retain it in relation to the choice made by claimants between the Fixed Sum Offer and assessment? Try as I might, I cannot see the justification for these different approaches.”
For this reason, Sir Wyn recommends that anyone applying for a compensation scheme who has chosen to have their claim assessed should be allowed to take the fixed sum offer instead up to three months after receiving their first assessed offer.
He also recommends that the Government should publish a document explaining the ‘best offer principle’ in practice.
Legal Advice
Sir Wyn criticises the lack of legal advice available to Horizon Shortfall Scheme applicants.
He writes: “I regard it as unconscionable and wholly unfair that claimants in HSS are unable to obtain legal advice, paid for by the Department, about whether they should opt for the Fixed Sum Offer or assessment of their claims. Yet the Department continues to resist this as if its life depended upon it.”
Considering this, he writes that anyone claiming compensation through the Horizon Shortfall Scheme (HSS) should be entitled to legal advice, funded by the Department of Business and Trade.
This would help them choose whether to accept the Fixed Sum Offer or to seek financial address which is assessed.
Compensation for family members
Through first-hand accounts, Sir Wyn concludes that there are likely a number of close family members of those who have been affected by the Horizon scandal who have “endured and may still endure considerable suffering”.
For this reason, he recommends “that such family members should be able to obtain financial redress which recognises their own suffering.” He writes that the Department should draw up plans for providing this redress.
Reforms to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme
Sir Wyn also urged for meaningful reforms to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme.
For instance, he proposes that:
A senior lawyer should be appointed to the Horizon Shortfall Scheme who can take actions to make sure compensation offers are made and assessed as soon as possible.
That the appointed senior lawyer should be given powers to help them ensure that offers are assessed as soon as practicable.
The Post Office and Department of Business and Trade should be required to make compensation offers that are equal or higher than the amount recommended by the independent advisory panel.
The ‘Best Offer Principle’ should apply for those applying for compensation through the Group Litigation Scheme. This means that if a sub-postmaster appeals their compensation offer and the appeal is successful, they will receive whichever offer is higher.
Anyone applying for a compensation scheme who has chosen to have their claim assessed may decide to take the fixed sum offer instead up to three months after receiving their first assessed offer.
Restorative justice
Restorative justice is the process of bringing together people who have caused harm and those affected by it, so they can discuss the impact, take responsibility, and work collaboratively on making amends.
Sir Wyn urges that Fujitsu, Post Office and the Government should either together, or separately, publish a report by October 2025, outlining an agreed programme of restorative justice or any actions they have taken to produce this programme.
Government response
Understanding the need for swift action, Sir Wyn has decided to publish the first volume of his final report as soon as possible.
On timings for a government response to these findings, Sir Wyn writes:
“No purpose would be served by HM Government or the Department delaying consideration of my recommendations until the remainder of my Report is delivered.
“The whole reason for delivering this volume of my report in advance of the remaining volume is that appropriate action in relation to the schemes for redress can be taken as soon as reasonably possible.”
Please note the report contains contents which some may find distressing, including mentions of suicide and self-harm.
The Business and Trade Secretary and the Post Office Minister have issued statements in response to the publication of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry’s report.
Business Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said: “The publication of the Post Office Horizon IT Inquiry’s report today by Sir Wyn and his team marks an important milestone for subpostmasters and their families.
“I welcome the publication today and am committed to ensuring wronged subpostmasters are given full, fair and prompt redress.
“The recommendations contained in Sir Wyn’s report require careful reflection, including on further action to complete the redress schemes. Government will promptly respond to the recommendations in full in Parliament.”
Post Office Minister, Gareth Thomas, said: “I welcome the Inquiry’s publication today and pay tribute to Sir Wyn and his team for their comprehensive and penetrating work.
“We must never lose sight of the Horizon Scandal’s human impact on postmasters and their families, which the Inquiry has highlighted so well.
“Sir Wyn’s report highlights a series of failings by the Post Office and various governments. His recommendations are immensely helpful as a guide for what is needed to finish the job and we will respond in full to Parliament after carefully considering them.”
Initial Government actions in response to the Inquiry:
In his oral statement to Parliament, Post Office Minister, Gareth Thomas confirmed that that the Government has accepted Sir Wyn’s recommendation that claimants should be able to bank the best offer they get from the GLO process and should not put it at risk if they choose to go to the independent Panel.
The Minister also confirmed that the Government will provide redress for close family members of those postmasters most adversely affected by the scandal.
It features four people with lived and living experience of suicide, each of whom agreed to share their story having been bereaved by, attempted or actively considered suicide.
The idea behind the campaign is that we need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.
Alongside the campaign, a new website with a range of information, resources and a new local services directory is being launched at suicideprevention.scot.
This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.
In addition to those with their own experiences of suicide, the campaign was developed with a group of people which also included those with professional experience and academic expertise. Suicide prevention specialists from local areas (Forth Valley and Ayrshire) were also involved, as was SeeMe, Scotland’s national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.
Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith who lost her uncle Joe to suicide said: “This is an extraordinary campaign. It’s deeply moving, extremely personal, and yet is full of hope. It is also very bold, which is no wonder given it was completely co-produced with people who bring their own experiences.
“The message could not be clearer: if you’re worried about someone, ask them how they are, ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening. And if you’re worried about yourself, please reach out. It might be the bravest thing you ever have to do, but it will probably be the best thing you ever do, too.”
Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA’s Health and Social Care Spokesperson added: “Within COSLA and across all spheres of Government, we recognise the importance of early intervention – providing the right support at the right time as early as possible.
“I’m confident that this campaign will contribute to our early intervention outcomes by prompting people to have vital conversations about suicide that might just save a life.
“I commend Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura for sharing their stories and helping to encourage these conversations. They are all active members of our communities with lived and living experience, which is an essential factor in helping to normalise talking about suicide and ensuring people in need are supported within their local communities.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:
Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org
Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87NHS 24 mental health hub on 111
If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.
“What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
New national campaign co-created by people with lived and living experience of suicide
Asks people to consider, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
Featuring four people with deeply personal experiences
Website launched to provide information and resources for people concerned for themselves or others
Campaign aims to kick-off Scotland’s biggest ever conversation about suicide
Scotland’s new national suicide prevention campaign goes live today (16 April 2025).
Bold, unflinching, and deeply personal, it’s been entirely co-produced by people with lived and living experience of suicide.
It comes as a new website with a range of information, resources and a new local services directory is launched at suicideprevention.scot.
The campaign asks a simple question, “What if a conversation about suicide could save a life?”
It features four people, each of whom agreed to share their story having been bereaved by, attempted or actively considered suicide.
They do so by writing a letter to a loved one, or themself, which feature in a powerful new film.
The idea behind the campaign is that we need to normalise talking about suicide and give people the confidence to have a conversation that might just save someone’s life.
The four participants are Seonaid Stallan, Ross Cunningham, Clare Collin, and Laura Junor. They came together to share their letters and discuss their experiences, in a series of moving conversations.
In doing so they are creating a gamechanging moment when Scotland will start to have its biggest ever conversation about suicide.
This is important, because suicide is a topic that makes many of us nervous; it can feel like the hardest thing in the world.
What if I say the wrong thing? Could I make the situation worse? Maybe I’m worrying over nothing and would look foolish to bring it up?
But here’s something lots of people don’t realise.
Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening.
This work is led by Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of organisations working to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s joint suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.
There are four outcomes that shape the strategy with SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) having responsibility for the key outcome that supports the campaign and website, improving understanding of suicide and tackling stigma.
In addition to those with their own experiences of suicide, the campaign was developed with a group of people which also included those with professional experience and academic expertise. Suicide prevention specialists from local areas (Fife and Ayrshire) were also involved, as was SeeMe, Scotland’s national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.
Clare Collin, who wrote her letter to nephew Gerry, but also lost her mum Prue and brother in law Sandy to suicide, comments:
“We knew Gerry was struggling with issues, but we never knew the depth of his pain or thought to ask him, ‘are you thinking about suicide?’
“If you are worried about someone, you should ask. If they are, don’t worry, you don’t need to be an expert, you just need to listen, be patient and compassionate, be there for them and help them find the right support – because it is out there.
“Don’t give up, keep trying until you find the right person to help.”
Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith who lost her uncle Joe to suicide says: “This is an extraordinary campaign. It’s deeply moving, extremely personal, and yet is full of hope. It is also very bold, which is no wonder given it was completely co-produced with people who bring their own experiences.
“The message could not be clearer: if you’re worried about someone, ask them how they are, ask them if they are thinking about suicide. Talking about suicide is the best way to prevent it from happening.
“And if you’re worried about yourself, please reach out. It might be the bravest thing you ever have to do, but it will probably be the best thing you ever do, too.”
Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Wellbeing Maree Todd says: “I’m pleased to see the launch of this new suicide prevention campaign and website, which sit at the heart of Scottish Government and COSLA’s suicide prevention action plan.
“The campaign’s powerful message that talking openly about suicide saves lives, is a clear invitation to us all – and will help tackle the stubborn taboo of suicide.
“Importantly, the campaign provides free digital and physical resources which can be adapted to reach people within different communities. The new website is a great addition to support anyone affected by suicide and aims to encourage more people to speak up and ask for help.”
Cllr Paul Kelly, COSLA’s health and social care spokesperson says: “Within COSLA and across all spheres of government, we recognise the importance of early intervention – providing the right support at the right time as early as possible.
“I’m confident that this campaign will contribute to our early intervention outcomes by prompting people to have vital conversations about suicide that might just save a life. I commend Seonaid, Ross, Clare and Laura for sharing their stories and helping to encourage these conversations.
“They are all active members of our communities with lived and living experience, which is an essential factor in helping to normalise talking about suicide and ensuring people in need are supported within their local communities.”
If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help, speak to someone you trust or call one of these helplines:
Samaritans 116 123 or use the online chat at samaritans.org
Breathing Space 0800 83 85 87
NHS 24 mental health hub on 111
If you are ever in immediate danger or have the means to cause yourself harm, you should dial 999 and request an ambulance.
Mental Wellbeing Minster Maree Todd has described a rise in the number of probable suicides last year as “distressing”, saying the increase is driving a determination to deliver change.
National Records of Scotland figures show there were 792 probable suicides in 2023 – an increase of 30 on the previous year.
The Scottish Government is taking action jointly with COSLA to reduce the number of deaths by suicide. This ensures government and local services work together to support anyone at risk of suicide or affected by it, while tackling underlying factors that can lead to suicide, such as inequalities, stigma and discrimination, which have been exacerbated by the pandemic and cost of living crisis.
Self-harm is also a risk factor for suicide and last year saw the launch of the world’s first action plan focussed solely on tackling the issue. This includes funding for a new service where anyone affected by self-harm can get compassionate support, without fear of stigma or discrimination.
Mental Wellbeing Minister Maree Todd said: “This report makes for distressing reading and my sincere condolences go out to all those who have been affected by the loss of a loved one by suicide.
“I am determined that together with COSLA and other partners we reduce the number of deaths by suicide and improve the nation’s mental health as a whole.
“The ambition and innovation in Scotland’s suicide prevention approach is widely recognised. However, we know there is always more to do.
“We are working hard with communities and services to help people talk more openly about suicide and offer compassionate support. We are prioritising reaching more people at higher risk of suicide, including those living in poverty, middle aged men, and LGBT communities.
“We are launching an online portal to ensure people feeling suicidal know where to go for help. The introduction of suicide reviews this year will also help us spot missed opportunities to support people and importantly use that learning to redesign services.
“Our wider actions around Mental Health are also helping to prevent suicide. They include funding more than 800 additional mental health workers in A&E departments, GP practices, police custody suites and prisons, and investing in our Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund which prioritises suicide prevention and social isolation projects.”
Chair of the Scottish Government’s Suicide Prevention Academic Advisory Group Professor Rory O’Connor said: “Similar to other countries, sadly an increase is not unexpected given the challenges of recent years, including the cost of living crisis and the economic downturn which have led to financial and social hardship for so many.
“Every single death is heartbreaking, leaving behind devastated families, friends and communities. We need to continue to do everything we can to ensure that those at risk of suicide receive the care and support that they need when they need it.”
COSLA President, Councillor Shona Morrison said: “As the voice of Local Government in Scotland, COSLA has taken a strong position on the importance of the mental health and wellbeing of our communities and the need to tackle inequalities that contribute to suicide risk.
“There is a considerable amount of work taking place across local areas in Scotland which supports delivery of the Suicide Prevention Strategy.
“We firmly believe that no death by suicide is acceptable, and we remain committed to working in partnership with Scottish Government to realise the ambitions of our joint strategy ‘Creating Hope Together’ to reduce deaths by suicide, whilst tackling the inequalities which contribute to suicide.”
Anyone affected by these issues can access support from the following services:
Suicide Prevention Scotland responds to 2023 death by suicide data
Suicide Prevention Scotland has responded to today’s release of data from National Records of Scotland (NRS) for 2022 which shows a small year on year increase in deaths by probable suicide.
Statistics released by NRS show that there were 792 suicides registered in 2023, a 3.9% increase on 2022 (which was up 1.2% on 2021’s data).
It’s the highest number of deaths by suicide since 2020 (805).
To understand how this increase fits into the broader trend, it is essential to consider not just year-to-year changes but also the five-year average, which provides a more stable and reliable measure of trends over time.
The number of deaths by suicide in 2023 at 792 is very slightly above the previous five-year average (787 for 2018-2022).
Compared to the previous female five-year average (208 for 2018-2022), 2023 shows a decrease of six deaths. Compared to the previous male five-year average (579 for 2018-2022), 2023 shows an increase of 11 probable suicides.
The average age of death by suicide has fallen from the previous year. In 2022 this was 48.2 years; in 2023 it was 46.6 years.
The overall increase in the past year can be attributed to an increase in male suicides by 34 (590). There was a reduction in female suicides by four (202). The rate for men remains three times that of women.
Looking back over the previous few years, there was a long downward trend in suicide rates from 2011-2017.
This was followed by an increase in 2018 and 2019, then by a decrease in 2020 and 2021, with the lowest numbers seen since 2017 (680) in 2021 (753).
The numbers released for 2022 increased very slightly (762).
The further increase in numbers for 2023 suggest that the downward trend may have stalled, however it is too early to say as several years’ data are needed to confirm an overall trend.
Over the last five years, Scotland’s suicide rates have shown fluctuations, with some years experiencing notable increases.
For example, in 2018, there were 784 deaths by suicide, a sharp rise from previous years, particularly among young people aged 15-24. The numbers slightly decreased in 2021 to 753 but rose again to 762 in 2022.
Probable suicides in the 15–24-year-old group have increased by ten to 79 in 2023, from 69 in 2022.
However, the category with the highest increase was the 35-44-year-olds (up 22 to 175), repeating a pattern seen for the previous year’s data, where this age-group also had one of the highest increases in suicide numbers for 2022 (up 22).
In contrast, the biggest reduction seen is in the 65-74-year-old group, which has fallen by 28 to 63 in 2023 from 91 in 2022.
There has also been a slight decrease over the last year in the 75-84-year-old group, with numbers staying the same in the 55-64-year-old age group.
The decrease in these older age groups was driven mostly by male suicides, which decreased by 22 to 99 in the 55-64-year-olds, and by 12 in the 65-74-year-olds.
In contrast, the increase seen for 2023 was driven mostly by male suicides in the 35-44-year-old group, which were up 23 to 144, and the highest number in this age category since 2011.
Although 792 people died by suicide in 2023, this number does not consider changes in the population size or how the number of people in different age groups change as time goes by.
Therefore, suicide rates corrected for these changes give more meaningful comparisons.
When we use these corrected suicide rates, the highest rates seen in 2023 was among 35-39-year-old males (44.3 per 100,000), an increase of 9.8 from 34.5 in 2022.
The next highest rate was for 40-44-year-old males (42.1 per 100,000), an increase of 5.4 from 36.7 in 2022.
In comparison, the highest rate for female suicide rate increased by 7.0 to 14.9 in the 50-54-year-old group.
In 2023, the suicide rate in the most deprived areas was 20.9 per 100,000, compared with least deprived areas of 8.6 per 100,000.
This means that deaths by suicides in 2023 occurred 2.4 times more in our most deprived communities, an improvement on inequality seen in previous years e.g., 2022 which was 2.6 times more and the previous five-year average 2018-2022, which was 3.1 times more.
In September 2022, the Scottish Government and COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) launched the country’s new long-term suicide prevention strategy and action plan, Creating Hope Together.
To deliver the new strategy, a new community of organisations and people, Suicide Prevention Scotland, has been established.
Last week it reported on progress made during its first full year in operation.
Creating Hope Together sets out four key outcomes. Partnership is at the heart of the approach, with a range of strategic partner(s) appointed to drive delivery. They are:
Creating a safer environment that protects against suicide across the whole of Government and society – Samaritans
Improving understanding of suicide and tackling stigma – SAMH
Providing compassionate support for anyone affected by suicide – Penumbra & Change Mental Health
Working in a connected way, that always draws on evidence and lived experience – Public Health Scotland
A new National Suicide Prevention Advisory Group (NSPAG) has also been established.
Led by Rose Fitzpatrick CBE QPM, its members represent many of the sectors leading work on the social determinants of suicide. This includes poverty, as well as partners who are working in key sectors affected by suicide — such as the criminal justice sector.
Their role is to provide advice to Suicide Prevention Scotland, Scottish Government and COSLA which helps us focus on the complexity, intersectionality and inequality of suicide.
Suicide Prevention Scotland’s National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith comments: “The fact that 792 people died by suicide is a stark reminder we still have so much more to do – and we are determined to keep working together do it.
“We don’t just think about the number of people who die by suicide on this day in August, they are in our thoughts every day – they help drive us to do this work – to try to help prevent future deaths.
“Every death by suicide is one too many and we need to continue to build our understanding of what we need to do and how we need to do it by listening to the experts, those who study and research suicide and people who have lived and living experience.
“We’ll use that understanding to help us develop and deliver more action that will save lives.
Ross Cunningham is part of Suicide Prevention Scotland’s Lived Experience Panel. Ross, who lives in Orkney, has suffered from depression and suicidal thoughts and is an advocate for social prescribing. He said:
“The grief experienced by so many people across Scotland who have had to bear the death of a loved one to suicide in 2023, or any year, is a heartbreak beyond words. The loss is something family and friends will tragically have to live with for the rest of their lives.
“Those we have lost aren’t just a statistic, they were people living in Scotland who had a name, had parents, had friends and family who loved them very much, had hobbies, had dreams and ambitions, and had a life of their own – one which cruelly came to an end when they believed that suicide was their only option.
“We must not let the immense loss of life to suicide that these figures represent, and those before it, be in vain. This should be a wake up call to governments, policy makers, employers and wider society that more must be done in all parts of Scotland – in every village, town, city and island community – to take preventative actions and to further support those suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts.
“Everyone can take little steps each day, recognising that you may need to talk to someone or seek support about your own mental health, or even if it’s just checking in with a friend on WhatsApp or phoning a loved one you know who might be going through a difficult time.
“Please don’t suffer in silence, don’t bottle things up. If you are going through something, know that support is out there – and the first step to getting that support is speaking to someone about how you’re feeling.”
NadineDougall, Professor of Mental Health & Data Science at Edinburgh Napier University and a member of the Suicide Prevention Scotland Academic Advisory Group comments: “Each death by suicide is an enormous tragedy, leaving devastating and lasting impacts on families, friends, and communities.
“Suicide is complex and rarely caused by a single factor, needing a whole-population approach to prevention.
“While reducing deaths by suicide is essential, it is also crucial to understand long-term trends and the influence of various factors to guide effective suicide prevention efforts.
“Notably, deaths by suicide among men aged 35-44 have increased, with the suicide rate reaching 44.3 per 100,000 people – the highest since 2011. This calls for further investigation to focus suicide prevention activities. Although there have been some gains in reducing inequality in suicide rates, much more needs to be done to sustain and improve these efforts.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or feeling suicidal, please don’t hesitate to ask for help by contacting your GP, NHS24 on 111, Samaritans on 116 123 or Breathing Space on 0800 83 58 87.
A mum whose teenage daughter died by suicide after viewing harmful content online plans to walk the Pentland Skyline in Scotland this Saturday (June 15) to raise money for Childline.
Ruth Moss (52), a nurse from Edinburgh, is raising money for the NSPCC-run counselling service, which supported her daughter Sophie several times before she died.
Sophie died in 2014 aged 13 after she watched harmful content online, including material that glorified suicide.
She struggled with her mental health throughout her teenage years, and Ruth encouraged her to contact Childline when she was feeling very low or suicidal so that she could talk to someone, in confidence, who was professionally trained and independent from family and teachers.
Despite living with the grief of losing her daughter, Ruth is determined to bring about something positive from her tragedy by raising money for the free counselling service, which is available to young people up to the age of 19, 24 hours a day, all year round.
Ruth, who plans to complete the 16-mile route with a 5,577 ft climb with her husband Craig and two friends, said: “This walk feels like a positive way of marking a tragic event. It’s happened to us, there’s nothing we can do to change that.
“But it’s comforting to know I’m helping other young people who may be struggling with their mental health in the same way that Sophie was, and it helps to keep her memory alive, which is hugely important to me.
“When you lose a child you are always wondering what they’d be doing now. I’ve watched some of her friends grow up into beautiful young women and men.
“Sophie would have turned 24 this month and I am thinking she would probably have finished university, she might have a job, where would she be living? There’s a whole future that didn’t happen for Sophie.
“I want to do something to help prevent another family from losing a child in such a tragic way.”
In 2022/23, Childline delivered 105,366 counselling sessions with children across the UK where the child’s main concern was mental or emotional health, suicide or self-harm.
Ruth said: “Sophie used Childline for quite some time and while the outcome for her was tragic the service provided her with comfort, and I am so grateful to them for being there for her.”
Samaritans Scotland has responded to yesterday’s release of data from National Records of Scotland in its annual update on suicide statistics for 2022.
Key Points
762 deaths by suicide were recorded in 2022 – an increase of nine from 2021.
People living in Scotland’s most deprived areas are 2.6 times more likely to die by suicide than those living in the least deprived areas.
At council level, the rate was higher than the Scottish average in Highland, Dundee City, East Ayrshire and Perth and Kinross.
Female deaths increased by 18 – however a decrease of 42 was recorded in 2021.
Although the number of probable suicides increased for females, men are still 2.9 times more likely to die by suicide in Scotland.
Neil Mathers, Executive Director of Samaritans Scotland, said: “Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and 762 deaths reaffirms the importance of suicide prevention work in Scotland.
“Today’s figures show that it is imperative that we continue to take action on the range of factors that may contribute to suicide risk.
“Those living in Scotland’s most deprived areas are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than those in more affluent areas.
“Samaritans research has previously shown the importance of suicide prevention work with middle aged men. Today’s data reinforces the need to prioritise support for middle aged people and highlights the need for women in middle age and older to receive the help they need.
“While there has been an increase overall in the number of female deaths, men continue to account for most deaths, and are still 2.9 times more likely to die by suicide in Scotland.
“We know that suicide is complex and there is rarely a single reason why someone may decide to take their own life.
“As a lead partner in Suicide Prevention Scotland – a new initiative in delivering Scotland’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2022-25 – we will encourage a whole society approach to address the social determinants with the greatest link to suicide risk. We will also consider ‘access to means’, examining locations of concern across the country.
“We look forward to working with the Scottish Government and other partners on this ambitious strategy to reduce deaths by suicide in Scotland.”
Dr David Hall, suicide prevention lead, Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, said: “Although the most recent figures do not show dramatic changes, it is particularly disappointing to note that the slight decrease noted in the last few years has not continued, despite ongoing efforts in suicide prevention.
“We must remember that every one of these probable deaths by suicide represent a terrible tragedy for all those affected.
“The dramatically increased rate in the most deprived areas of Scotland over the less deprived, illustrates the ongoing health inequalities experienced by many Scots.
“Ongoing efforts in suicide prevention and focus on ensuring that those in suicidal crisis can access prompt and appropriate help, wherever they are, remain vitally important.”
Suicide Prevention Scotland has responded to today’s release of data from National Records of Scotland (NRS) for 2022 which shows a small year on year increase in deaths by probable suicide.
Statistics released by NRS show that there were 762 suicides registered in 2022, a 1.2% increase on 2021 (which was down 6.5% on 2020’s data).
Annual data can fluctuate so it is important to also view the figures in terms of five year rolling averages which give a better understanding of the pattern of deaths over time.
The number of deaths by suicide in 2022 is slightly below the previous five-year average (771). Apart from 2021, it’s the lowest number of suicide deaths since 2017 (680).
The average age of death by suicide has risen from the previous year. In 2022 this was 48.1 years; in 2022 it was 41.9 years.
The small increase in the past year can be attributed to an increase in female suicides by 18 and a reduction in male suicides, which decreased by nine. The rate for men remains three times that of women.
Compared to the previous female five-year average (198 for 2017-2021), 2022 shows an increase of eight deaths. Compared to the previous male five-year average (573 for 2017-2021), 2022 shows a decrease of 17 probable suicides.
There was an increase in suicide rate 2017-2019, followed by a decrease 2019-2021, with the lowest numbers seen since 2017 in 2021. Although the numbers released for 2022 do not continue to follow this decrease, it is too early to say if the downward trend has stalled, as several years’ data are needed to confirm an overall trend.
Probable suicides in the 15–24-year-old group have fallen by four to 69 in 2022, from 73 in 2021.
The biggest reduction seen is in the 25–34-year-old group, which fell by 35 to 113 in 2022 from 148 in 2021. However, the next oldest age category, the 35-44-year-olds, saw one of the highest increases (up 22 to 153).
There has also been a slight increase over the last year in older age groups, including the 55-64-year-olds (up 22, to 143 deaths, and mirroring similar findings for 2021) and the 65–74-year-olds (up 18, to 91 deaths).
The increase in these older age groups was driven mostly by male suicides, which increased by 37 to 121 in the 55-64-year-olds.
When we look at the rate of suicide, the highest rate seen in 2022 was among 35-44-year-old males (35.6 per 100,000), an increase from 27.4 in 2021.
In 2022, the suicide rate in the most deprived areas was 21.7 per 100,000, compared with least deprived areas of 8.4 per 100,000.
This means that deaths by suicides in 2022 occurred 2.6 times more in our most deprived communities, an improvement on inequality seen in previous years.
The five-year average 2018-2022 was three times more in the most deprived areas compared with least deprived areas. This is a small improvement from the previous five year average 2017-2021, which was 3.1 times more.
Last September, the Scottish Government and COSLA (Convention of Scottish Local Authorities) launched the country’s new long-term suicide prevention strategy and action plan, Creating Hope Together.
To deliver the new strategy, a new community of organisations and people, Suicide Prevention Scotland, has been established.
Creating Hope Together sets out four key outcomes. Partnership is at the heart of the approach, and so a strategic partner(s) has been appointed to drive delivery. They are:
Creating a safer environment that protects against suicide across the whole of Government and society – Samaritans
Improving understanding of suicide and tackling stigma – SAMH
Providing compassionate support for anyone affected by suicide – Penumbra & Change Mental Health
Working in a connected way, that always draws on evidence and lived experience – Public Health Scotland
A new National Suicide Prevention Advisory Group has also been established.
Led by Rose Fitzpatrick CBE QPM, its members represent many of the sectors leading work on the social determinants of suicide. This includes poverty, as well as partners who are working in key sectors affected by suicide – such as the criminal justice sector.
Their role is to provide advice to Suicide Prevention Scotland, Scottish Government and COSLA which helps us focus on the complexity, intersectionality and inequality of suicide.
Suicide Prevention Scotland’s recently appointed National Delivery Lead Haylis Smith comments: “Today we learnt that 762 families lost a loved one to suicide in 2022. Every person was a family member or friend – important to and loved by others. Each and every one drives our commitment to do everything we can to prevent suicide.
“Creating Hope Together – the new strategy and action plan, along with Suicide Prevention Scotland, the community of people across the country who are involved in suicide prevention, will help to ensure we deliver a joined up whole of government – and society – approach.
“The year one priorities provide a strong base for us to continue the detailed work that has been undertaken in recent years and the outcomes framework will help us measure our progress.
“Understanding the determinants of suicide is vital to our work and will continue to help shape the critical focus on inequalities, particularly the impact of poverty, because we know that you are 2.6 times more likely to die by suicide if you live in the most deprived areas, than the least.
“Everyday we should remind ourselves that talking about suicide saves lives. People often worry about bringing the subject up, about saying the word suicide, but we know that talking about suicide is an important way that we can ensure that no death is inevitable. ”
SteveMcHughis part of Suicide Prevention Scotland’s Lived Experience Panel. His son died by suicide in 2016. He said: “No one underestimates the complexity or the size of the challenge that we face, and we all understand that a lot of the work we are doing in Suicide Prevention Scotland is building institutional strength, capacity and awareness that will drive these numbers down over the longer term.
“It is totally regretful that we’ve seen a short term increase from 2021 to 2022, but we believe we are working extremely hard on the right things. That being said, we have to try and move quicker from the ideas into implementation in our communities.
“We were all very fearful that lockdown was going to have a spike impact on suicide rates, and that didn’t happen, but we are aware that lockdown has had a long-term impact on the population’s mental health and there are going to be further challenges ahead.”
NadineDougall, Professor of Mental Health & Data Science at Edinburgh Napier University and a member of the Suicide Prevention Scotland Academic Advisory Group comments: “Every death by suicide has devastating consequences on families, friends, and communities. The deaths by suicide registered in 2022 showed a 1% increase on the previous year, although they were also slightly below the previous five year average.
“The 2022 data also reveals that stark inequalities remain between our most and least deprived communities, with 2.6 times as many deaths registered in our most deprived areas.
“Although we have seen a slight improvement in this inequality comparing previous five year averages, it is still clear that as well as bringing down numbers of deaths by suicide, we must tackle the wider inequalities that contribute to suicide.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health or feeling suicidal, please don’t hesitate to ask for help by contacting your GP, NHS24 on 111, Samaritans on 116 123 or Breathing Space on 0800 83 58 87.
SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) is inviting people from Edinburgh with lived experience of suicide to apply to take part in the Suicide Prevention Scotland Lived Experience Panel.
The panel exists so that people with experience of suicide can help shape Scotland’s mission to prevent suicide.
The Lived Experience Panel works alongside Suicide Prevention Scotland to influence and advise on its work to deliver the Scottish Government and COSLA’s suicide prevention strategy, Creating Hope Together.
Suicide Prevention Scotland is the community of people and organisations working together to deliver the strategy.
The panel was initially formed in 2019 to support the delivery of the previous strategy.
It played a vital role in the development of guidance to support local authorities, learning & development resources, the launch of the United to Prevent Suicide campaign movement, pilot projects to support families bereaved by suicide, and shaping an approach to supporting people in suicidal crisis, Time Space Compassion.
This model has been so successful that it has been recognised by the World Health Organisation as a significant international example of participation of people with lived experience in suicide prevention work.
Those who have previously attempted suicide, experienced suicidal thoughts, or have lost a loved one to suicide are encouraged to apply to be on the panel.
The Scottish Government provides funding to SAMH to host the lived experience panel, providing support to the group’s members so that they can contribute fully and safely help influence suicide prevention strategy.
SeonaidStallan, is a current member of the Lived Experience Panel. She lost her son Dylan to suicide; three weeks later her sister-in-law Vanessa took her own life.
She said: “After losing my son and sister-in-law to suicide, I knew there were things which needed to change to prevent this happening to others.
“Being a member of the Lived Experience Panel has given me the opportunity to share my personal lived experience, insight and knowledge of suicide.
My experience is valued, and I have been able to use my voice to help influence and shape a variety of actions and services in suicide prevention.
“I am pleased to say that Scotland now has a pilot service which supports families bereaved by suicide, families like mine. This will save lives.”
Dan Farthing, Head of Suicide Prevention at SAMHsaid: “This is a unique opportunity for people in Edinburgh to play a significant part in Scotland’s mission to prevent suicide.
“SAMH is proud to have worked collaboratively to establish and develop the Lived Experience Panel and to continue to host it for Suicide Prevention Scotland.
“Working with panel members we’ve created a safe space for open conversation, and constructive challenge. Those who join the panel will be able to genuinely shape what Scotland’s approach to suicide prevention looks like in the future.
“Support and safeguarding are always at the forefront of everything we do, and so those who are interested in contributing this way should know that their wellbeing is our top priority.”
Haylis Smith, National Delivery, Suicide Prevention Scotlandsaid: “Over the last four years the Lived Experience Panel has become a vital part of the three-way approach to the development of suicide prevention policy and practice alongside public health professionals and our academic advisors.
“Members understandably want to do all they can to prevent suicide, but it is the quality of their contributions that have made such a difference.
“The idea of a lived experience panel was very new when this one was set up, and some people were probably quite nervous about taking this approach.
“However, we’ve seen so many meaningful contributions that have helped shape our approach, and in some cases bring about change that may not have happened.
“We’d warmly encourage anyone who has experience of suicide in Edinburgh, who feels they are ready to contribute to this work to put themselves forward.”
