The plan outlines a coordinated approach to tackling the issue by working closely with local agencies and the community.
Havering Council has launched a new five-year suicide prevention strategy aimed at reducing the number of deaths by suicide across the borough. Approved by the Council’s Cabinet, the plan outlines a coordinated approach to tackling the issue by working closely with local agencies and the community.
The strategy focuses on identifying those at heightened risk, increasing awareness and education around suicide prevention, and providing support to individuals, families, and communities affected by suicide. By implementing targeted interventions and fostering an open dialogue, the Council hopes to create a borough where fewer lives are lost to suicide.
Key to the plan is recognising those most vulnerable and learning from past cases to develop more effective prevention measures. It also aims to break down stigma, equipping the public with the knowledge to identify warning signs, engage in meaningful conversations, and direct individuals to appropriate help and support services.
“Suicide is a significant health problem. It’s important that everyone sees the prevention of suicide as their business and is able to talk to someone they care about to prevent it.”
- Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader
The strategy highlights the importance of early intervention and ensuring that individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts have access to immediate and effective support. This includes engaging with people at risk, those who self-harm, and individuals affected by the loss of a loved one to suicide.
A newly formed Havering Suicide Prevention Steering Group will drive the initiative. The group will comprise individuals with lived experience, representatives from the Council, NHS officials, safeguarding leads, and charities. Together, they will work towards delivering meaningful change and enhancing support services for those at risk.
Councillor Gillian Ford, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, stressed the urgency of addressing suicide prevention as a community-wide responsibility. “Suicide is a significant health concern, and in Havering, one person dies by suicide every three weeks. Each of these deaths deeply impacts families, friends, and the wider community. However, every suicide is potentially preventable, and we must do everything in our power to reduce these tragedies over the next five years.”
She further emphasised the role of community members in prevention efforts, stating, “It’s crucial that everyone feels able to talk about suicide and look out for those around them. Some individuals are more vulnerable than others, and by recognising the signs and knowing how to respond, we can help direct them towards life-saving support.”
As part of the initiative, the Council is rolling out suicide prevention training under the ‘HereToTalk’ programme. This will see workers from local businesses, including barbers, hairstylists, betting shops, and pubs, trained to identify signs of distress in customers and direct them to appropriate services.
In addition, the Council is seeking members for its Lived Experience Advisory Group. This group will consist of individuals who have lived with suicidal thoughts, professionals who work in suicide prevention, and those who have been personally affected by suicide. Their insights will be vital in shaping future prevention efforts and ensuring that the strategy remains responsive to community needs.
The new strategy underwent public consultation in 2024 before being formally adopted at the Cabinet meeting. Residents who wish to get involved or seek more information about the initiative can contact the Council’s public health team at publichealth@havering.gov.uk.
By fostering collaboration, education, and community engagement, the Council aims to make Havering a borough where fewer lives are lost to suicide, and support is readily available for those who need it most.
