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Figures show risk of suicide amongst care workers is twice the national average (31 March 2017)

Date: 31/03/2017
Duncan Lewis, Legal News Solicitors, Figures show risk of suicide amongst care workers is twice the national average

New data commissioned by Public Health England (PHE) shows that that suicides are less common for females than males and that there are differences in the types of occupation where suicide is more common.

For women, occupations with a high risk of suicide include nurses (23% above the national average), primary school teachers (42% above average) and those working in culture, media and sport (69% above average).

For men, low-skilled labourers in construction had a risk that was three times higher than that the average for England – men working in skilled construction jobs also had an increased risk.

Both male and female care workers have a risk of suicide that was almost twice the national average.

PHE commissioned the data from the Office for National Statistics – and analysis of ONS suicide prevalence statistics for 2011 to 2015 was carried out to gain a better understanding of factors that influence suicide. The data will inform the government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy and help identify where inequalities exist amongst different groups.

To coincide with this, PHE, Business in the Community (BITC) and Samaritans have joined forces to produce toolkits for employers on how to prevent suicide – and how to minimise the impact when it does happen.

Chief Executive of PHE, Duncan Selbie, said:

“Suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50 – and more women are taking their own lives each year.

“Death by suicide is never inevitable – but for a person who is overwhelmed by feelings and events that appear insurmountable, it can seem like the only answer. People who die from suicide are usually not in contact with health services and often push through in silence as their ability to cope deteriorates.

“With more than two-thirds of adults in employment, the workplace offers an opportunity to reach people who need extra support. I urge all employers – large or small, public or private sector – to treat mental health as seriously as physical health. Early action can stop any employees reaching a desperate stage – simple actions can make a huge difference: talking with a manager or colleague can help people get the support they need and ultimately save lives.”


Samaritans Chief Executive Ruth Sutherland added:

“We spend a third of our lives at work and one-fifth of us experience suicidal thoughts, so these resources are much needed.

“We shouldn’t stop there though – it is up to us to create a culture in our workplaces where people feel safe enough to talk about their feelings and get support if they need it.

“The effects of suicide can be devastating and they can reach far beyond immediate family and friends – Samaritans is proud to have worked with Public Health England, Business in the Community and other partners on these resources.”


Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors

Duncan Lewis is the UK’s largest provider of Legal Aid mental health services and can advise mental health patients on a wide range of issues – including access to NHS mental health services and detention under the Mental Health Act.

Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors regularly visit NHS hospitals to advise on mental health law – and are available across England and Wales at short notice for hospital and police station appointments.

In some cases, Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors may be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient on a range of issues, including initiating treatment reviews where appropriate.

For expert legal advice on mental health law, call the Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors Helpline on 020 3114 1124.

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