Tony Lloyd: ‘Suicide-awareness in schools will save lives’

Tony Lloyd MP

Rochdale MP Sir Tony Lloyd is calling for age-appropriate suicide awareness to be embedded in the school curriculum and to expand mental health first aid training for staff in educational settings.
Tony joins 27 cross-party MPs in signing a Parliamentary motion in demanding action now.

The motion also commends the Three Dads Walking campaign set up by Andy Airey, Tim Owen, and Mike Palmer, who with their UK walk are raising awareness of young suicide and boosting charity funds following the tragic losses of their daughters, Sophie, Emily and Beth to suicide.

Mr Lloyd said: "More than 200 school-aged children are taking their own lives each year.

“That is a shocking figure, and we should all be shocked that suicide is a major killer of young people.

"That's why I am calling on the government to embed age-appropriate suicide awareness and prevention in the school curriculum to engage with schools to allow this to happen, and to expand mental health first aid training for staff in educational settings.

"Research shows that, with appropriate early intervention and support, suicide can be prevented."

Help and support

Suicide affects us all. Encourage someone to talk before suicide seems their only option. Together we can help prevent suicide. Find out how at www.shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk

If you’re struggling to cope call Samaritans on 116 123 or text Shout on 85258. If you need immediate help, please call emergency services on 999 or The Samaritans on 116 123.

If you’re bereaved by suicide, you do not need to deal with your grief alone. Greater Manchester Bereavement Service can find the right support for you. Visit: www.greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk

Take the free 20-minute training to learn how to save a life: www.bit.ly/savealife20