I have been working really hard to campaign for better mental health services both locally and in Parliament. Coronavirus has meant the implementation of isolation, which has led to more people discussing mental health. It is really important to talk about mental health and I wanted to update you on some of the work I have been doing in this area. If you are struggling with mental health at the moment, please visit this link for advice and support.
Soon after being elected, If U Care Share Foundation invited me to visit. They are a local charity who do great work both locally and across the UK. One of the key things we spoke about was the CID27 form. This is a form that a police officer has to fill in when someone has taken their own life. At the end of the form is an ‘opt-in’ section – friends or relatives of the dead can opt-in to be contacted by a support organisation. Currently, this has to be filled in and signed by someone at one of the most tragic moments of their life. I want to make a change so that this isn’t necessary – people should get an automatic call from a supportive organisation.
There’s a clear reason that this change is necessary. Studies have shown that people whose friends or family members have killed themselves are much more likely to attempt suicide themselves. In North West Durham, there have very sadly been ‘clusters’ of suicides, where groups of people who knew each other have committed suicide as a result of those close to them doing the same thing. I want to help to break this cycle.
I raised the issue with our Chief Constable and Acting PCC for Durham Police. I have also raised the issue with the local British Transport Police. I recently met with the Home Secretary, the Rt Hon. Priti Patel MP, to seek her support for this change in the CID27 form nationally. I am delighted that she wrote to me in support of my campaign.
I will be meeting with Nadine Dorries MP, the Health Minister responsible for mental health issues and suicide prevention, in Westminster when we are able to.
Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 45 and in recent years the number of young women taking their own lives has risen. Our region in the North East is the worst affected in England.
I will continue campaigning on this issue and other issues related to mental health and will provide more updates in the future.
In the meantime:
If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone free of charge 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.
If you are suicidal or have lost someone due to suicide and need help and support, please contact If U Care share via their website here for support or phone 0191 387 5661.
MIND the charity for better mental health can be contacted by visiting their website or calling 0300 123 3393.
All three of the above charities also welcome donations and information can be found on their websites.
Best wishes and stay safe,
Richard
Richard Holden MP