Our comment on the latest ONS suicide figures

Today the Office of National Statistics released the latest suicide figures for England and Wales. 6,162 people were registered as dying by suicide last year, 4,620 were men.

Our Chief Executive Ellen O’Donoghue said:

“Every death by suicide is a preventable tragedy that causes devastation to families and communities. The suicide figures released today show that suicide rates remain consistently high, with men three times more likely to die by suicide and men aged 50-54 most at risk. At James’ Place we provide free, life-saving therapy to men in suicidal crisis at centres across the country. In 2025-2026, 13% of the men that came to us for help were in their fifties. These men told us that life events – such as the breakdown of a relationship, family problems, work and money issues – were driving their suicidal crisis. Men like Neil who became suicidal after losing his dad and having issues with his son, and Chris who became suicidal after his business collapsed. Both were able to get the help they needed at James’ Place, to find hope for the future. 

We know there is more work we all urgently need to do to look at why these men are more at risk, what we can do to encourage them to reach out for help, and, crucially, ensure that targeted support is available quickly for men where and when they need it.” 

For more information about the support we offer at James’ Place visit Get support