TODAY marks World Suicide Prevention Day, which is being backed by Worcestershire County Council.

The council have put together a suicide prevention plan which aims to reduce the number of suicides across the county and to provide better support for those affected.

Councillor John Smith, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: "Our suicide prevention plan demonstrates a whole system and community approach to addressing suicide across the population with a particular focus on targeted groups.

“Every suicide is a tragedy and we must do more collectively to prevent deaths by suicide.''

In the long term, it is hoped the plan will adopt and achieve a ‘zero suicide’ in Worcestershire.

Online is a free Zero Suicide Alliance training, which was launched in November 2017 by the House of Commons. It is a short (20-30 minute) course providing basic suicide prevention skills that anyone can use to help and support others.

To find out more, visit zerosuicidealliance.com/

On average, one person every week in Worcestershire dies by suicide and their death will affect at least 10 people.

Worcestershire's Time to Change hub is tackling mental health stigma and encouraging people to talk and seek support. The plan combines a range of interventions that build community resilience and target people who may be at higher risk of suicide.

For further information on World Suicide Prevention Day, visit

mind.org.uk/news-campaigns/campaigns/bluelight/world-suicide-prevention-day/

Samaritans are on hand 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to listen. Their number is free to call 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org for more information.