Content warning
This press release includes references to suicide and self-harm. If this affects you, please remember that help is available, for example:
- The Samaritans - 116 123 - samaritans.org
- The NHS - 111 - nhs.uk
- Childline - childline.org.uk (for children and young people under 19 years old)
As we approach World Suicide Prevention Day (Thursday, 10 September), Cyngor Gwynedd is highlighting the principle that suicide prevention is “everyone’s business” and a shared responsibility between organisations, communities and individuals.
This means that everyone should be open to talking about the subject; the Council will work alongside partners to ensure that services are available for those at risk of self-harm or suicide; and that support is also available for families and communities living with the effects of suicide and self-harm. Preventing suicide and self-harm among children and young people is an important element of this work.
This important issue will be discussed by the Council’s Cabinet next week, where members will be asked to adopt the Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention Action Plan 2026–2028.
By adopting the Action Plan, different Council services and departments, including social services, the education department and the community safety partnership, will work together. Some of the actions arising from the Plan will include:
- Raising awareness and providing training for staff and elected members.
- Raising awareness among residents and community groups about the support available.
- Building on the work already taking place through schools to provide support and assistance for children and young people.
Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Leader of Cyngor Gwynedd, said:
As a Council, we are committed to playing our part in the national and global effort to prevent suicide and self-harm.
In 2024, more than 15 people per 100,000 of the population in Wales died by suicide, and this figure was higher than in 2023. This is a sobering statistic, and we are determined to work with the community and other organisations to prevent these deaths.
It is a complex issue, and many factors are associated with suicide, including poverty, mental and physical health problems, alcohol and substance misuse, and more. This is why everyone should work together on a local and national level to address these challenges.”
Councillor Elin Walker Jones, Chair of Cyngor Gwynedd, has worked hard to ensure this important issue has its place on the agenda. She said:
Self-harm and suicide have often been taboo subjects in our society over generations. It is extremely important that we become more willing to discuss issues like these openly and remind people that support is available; people are not alone.
Unfortunately, this is an issue that affects many families and communities. I am very pleased that the Council’s Cabinet will be discussing the Action Plan just a few days after World Suicide Prevention Day.”