A project has been launched to help understand the reasons behind the high numbers of suicide in Cumberland, and help determine how best to support people.
The study, which is being conducted by researchers at Liverpool John Moores University, has been commissioned by Cumberland Council and supported by the council’s Health Determinants Research Collaboration, which is itself funded through the National Institute for Health and Care Research.
Funding for this project is from the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
The research will explore residents’ and communities’ exposure to suicide, if and how it has affected their lives and, if they have considered suicide, why this was. It is also hoped to understand what could or would have helped them to make different choices.
The findings of this study will directly underpin future suicide prevention work, the council said.
An online survey is available to anyone over 18 who lives in Cumberland at ljmu.questionpro.eu/bigquestion
Researchers would also like to speak directly with residents who are aged over 18 who have experience of personal suicidal thoughts or behaviours, or been affected through bereavement.
They are also keen to interview anyone supporting someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviours, either personally or as part of their profession.
Cumberland currently has one of the highest rate of suicide in the country, and this work will help inform the council’s Suicide Prevention Plan.
Colin Cox, director of public health and communities, said: “We have put improving the health and wellbeing of our residents at the heart of our services.
“Suicide rates are far too high in Cumberland with every death being one too many which has a devastating impact on family, friends, and the community. By better understanding the situation in Cumberland, we can start to make a difference for people and help them get the support they need.”
Dr Emma Ashworth, Reader (Associate Professor) in Child & Adolescent Mental Health, at Liverpool John Moores University, added: “We hope that this new research project will be able to shed light on the reasons behind the high suicide rates in Cumberland, and will ultimately inform strategies that help to reduce the high rates.
“This is a great opportunity for Cumberland residents to have their say and share their experiences, helping to influence the new strategies that are implemented.”
To find out more, go to the project’s website at www.ljmu.ac.uk/research/centres-and-institutes/institute-of-health-research/expertise/suicide-and-self-harm/the-big-question-understanding-suicide-rates-in-cumberland where you can also see the participant information sheet. Residents can also contact the research team: E.L.Ashworth@ljmu.ac.uk or Becky.Clarke@Cumberland.gov.uk
