A LIVERPOOL charity today warned suicide rates could rise in Merseyside during the economic downturn.
Chiefs at CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) said they are concerned job losses will lead to more people taking their own lives.
The organisation held a summit with health workers and the emergency services last week to try and reduce the numbers.
On average, 162 people take their own life in Merseyside and Cheshire every year.
Colin Vose, chairman of the region’s suicide network, who is working with the charity, said: “Suicide is one of the biggest causes of young male death in this area.
“We are concerned that suicide rates could increase during the downturn, as job cuts are made.
“We need to work together more effectively to offer people the support they need.”
Simon Howes, CALM’S development coordinator said: “People often underestimate the importance of a job to people – it can quite often define who you are, and if this suddenly disappears it can have a huge effect.
“The problems are not just financial, and it can put big pressures on relationships.”
The Mersey Suicide Reduction Summit, which was held at Tate Liverpool, discussed the wider social implication of suicide, including how it affects those who encounter it at work, including paramedics and police officers.
And a presentation was given on a project under way in Derry.
The province in Northern Ireland has a dedicated team of people helping those effected by suicide directly, and workers from taxi drivers to hairdressers have been trained to spot the signs.
Professionals offer support to families directly affected, as people who have lost a loved one through suicide are more likely to take their own life. It is hoped similar work can be carried out in Merseyside in the next few years.
The charity organised the summit on its 10-year anniversary.
Mr Howes said: “Every incidence of suicide in our region impacts both on community and the wider economy.
“Our aim is to engage the partners at the summit in the creation of a Suicide Reduction Charter.
“Offering a fresh approach to responding and supporting people and learning from City of Derry’s Suicide Prevention Strategy.
“As part of 10 Years of CALM, we want to add our unique approach to tackling the issue of suicide and inspire some new responses from local authorities.
Mr Vose added: “Suicide is a tragedy both for the individual, for their loved ones and for society. We as a society all have a part to play in the reduction of suicide. Our aim simply is to save lives.”
