Cole-Hamilton urges new hope for mental health on World Suicide Prevention Day

Speaking on World Suicide Prevention Day, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and health spokesperson Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has called on the Scottish Government to provide “new hope” to all those struggling with their mental health, urging ministers to take action to cut suicide rates and ensure access to robust crisis care.  

Earlier this week, figures from the National Records of Scotland showed that there were 762 probable suicides in Scotland in 2022, an increase of 1% from the previous year. Those in the most deprived areas are now 2.6 times more likely to die by suicide than those in the least deprived areas.  

Mr Cole-Hamilton said:  

“Suicide has a devastating and everlasting impact on families and communities. Today, we are reminded of the urgent need to strengthen prevention and give new hope to all those struggling.  

“The shadow of lockdown and the soaring cost of living have materially worsened the mental health of many Scots.  

“To make matters worse, the SNP made the reckless decision to cut £50m from the mental health budget. Now, thousands of children and adults are waiting more than a year for the treatment they desperately need.

“Saving lives must be a key priority for this government.  

“Scottish Liberal Democrats want a properly funded, world-beating system that will tackle our mental health emergency. As well as providing fresh funds for local and accessible mental health services, my party would roll out more counsellors in schools, GPs, A&E departments and alongside police and prison staff. We would also provide access to robust 24/7 crisis care.”

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