In 2024, 290 lives were lost to suicide in Northern Ireland. Families, friends, schools, workplaces and communities continue to carry the impact of each loss each day.
At the same time, Northern Ireland continues to face significant challenges: higher levels of mental health need, lower mental health spending per person, and increasing pressure on statutory and community and voluntary organisations.
Voluntary and community organisations across Northern Ireland are facing rising demand, increasing costs and growing funding pressures. Jobs and essential services are at risk.
Over 8,300 individuals have already lost support following a 64% reduction in funding following the replacement of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The sector is warning that 11,000 to 24,000 people are at risk of losing services overall.
The recent insolvency of PAPYRUS highlights just how vulnerable vital suicide prevention services can become without sustainable funding.
Suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. We must work together to change the narrative on suicide and break the silence.
If you or someone you know would like to seek support from the Zachary Geddis Trust, please get in touch.
028 7044 0123
info@zgbtst.org
