THE BALL IS ROLLING FOR the National Suicide Prevention Group

Following many months of representation, research and long sessions in Committee rooms involving The MindEd Trust and several, marvellous sector advocates, the recent NHS Long Term Plan sets out a dramatic increase in mental health spending for young people, a reduction in waiting times, better community care, the ratification and funding of the national Zero Suicide Alliance, the redefinition of young people to be those aged up to 25 and crucially, the creation of support after suicide services in every part of the country.

​It is a Plan and plans need implementing, but there is more in this document and vision regarding mental health and suicide prevention than there has ever been before. The photo below (of the National Suicide Prevention Group) shows some of the dedicated campaigners, thought leaders, academics, civil servants and politicians who have made this happen. It is not glamorous. It is hard work, emanating from bone-crushing tragedy. Nor is it by any means perfect. If realised however, many lives will be saved and much misery averted. In the memory of our dear son Edward Mallen, please share.