If you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health, call 111 and select the mental health option (option 2). This call is free and will enable you to speak to a mental health professional in Cornwall. Anyone, any age, any time.
Suicide Prevention Strategy
Suicide prevention and the promotion of good mental health is a key priority in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The local suicide rate is higher than the average in the South West and England. On average more than one person dies by suicide every week in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Each one of these deaths is a tragic loss. It has a devastating impact on families, friends, colleagues, communities and services.
Our vision is a Cornwall and Isles of Scilly with zero suicides, where people can live healthy, fulfilling and connected lives; and where anybody in need and in crisis is supported by their communities and services that work together to improve wellbeing
There are four strategic priorities for action to deliver this strategy.
- Strong local intelligence network and sharing of best practice
- Promotion of healthier, more connected and safer communities
- Targeted suicide prevention and early intervention
- Support for people impacted by suicide
Read the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Suicide Prevention Strategy 2022-2027
Towards Zero
In Cornwall the ‘Towards Zero Suicide’ campaign began in 2016. It's based on the belief that a systematic approach to care can prevent suicide deaths for people under care in health systems. We have continued with the annual Towards Zero events as a way to bring together a community of people who are working to reduce suicides in the county.
Find out more on our Towards Zero pages.
Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Suicide Prevention Innovation Fund
Several projects benefitted from funding from our Suicide Prevention Innovation Fund. This supported community-based projects to help reduce the numbers of people taking their own lives.
Find out more about the Suicide Prevention Innovation Fund.
Appropriate Language Statement
When we talk about suicide, we need to think carefully about the effect of the language that we use. Please refer to the following for appropriate language examples.