Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people aged 20-34 years in the UK (ONS 2015), accounting for 24% of deaths in this age group in men and 12% in women. It is also the leading cause of death among men aged 35-49 (followed closely by heart disease).

Lambeth has a higher prevalence of some of the key risk factors for suicide than the benchmark for England (including severe mental illness and substance misuse).

The purpose of the strategy is to provide a multi-agency framework for action to prevent avoidable loss of life through suicide. It draws on local experience and research evidence, aiming to prevent suicide and promote mental health and wellbeing. Key priority groups will be:

1. People who are vulnerable due to economic circumstances
2. Children and young people
3. People who are socially isolated
4. LGBTQ+ people
5. People who misuse substances
6. People in the care of mental health services
7. BME groups, migrants and asylum seekers
8. People in the prison system

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