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Suicides in England hit record high in 2019, figures show

The number of suicides in England have risen to a record high after surging by a quarter in two years, new figures show.

Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that 1,413 self-inflicted deaths were recorded in the last three months of 2019, compared with 1,130 in the same period of 2017 – a 25 per cent increase.

The rate of suicide in the last quarter of 2019 hit a 19-year high, at 11.4 deaths per 100,00 people.

In July 2018, the standard of proof used by coroners in England and Wales to determine whether a death was caused by suicide was lowered, which the ONS cautioned would result in an increased number of deaths recorded as suicide, possibly creating a discontinuity in the time series.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

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