A £5m package of funding has been launched to help charities ramp up suicide prevention support, amid rising demand for mental health services during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Department of Health and Social Care has unveiled the funding which includes a £4m grant fund for applications from charities that support suicide prevention.

A further £1m has been set aside to support existing and ongoing suicide prevention programmes.

The grant fund is being administered by PwC and £200,00 of the funding is ring-fenced for small community groups and organisations.

“I know the last 18 months have been really challenging and many more people have been asking for help with their mental health,” said mental health minister Gillian Keegan.

“I want to be clear: we are here to support anyone struggling – and if you need help, I encourage you to reach out.

"The entire suicide prevention voluntary sector has played a crucial role in providing people with the help and support they need throughout the pandemic and I encourage them to apply for this funding so we can continue to support our communities.”

Government suicide prevention advisor Professor Luis Appleby added: “The response of suicide prevention charities to the pandemic has been nothing short of outstanding.

“They were among the first to respond to the distress that many have felt. They have worked tirelessly to support people who are anxious, isolated or at risk. They have been an invaluable partner to the NHS.

“All this has stretched their resources to the limit, at a time when fund-raising from the public has been harder. This grant funding opportunity is in recognition of the contribution they have made.”

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