New free Bereaved by Suicide Support Service launched in Suffolk

Suffolk Mind has partnered with Mid & North East Essex Mind to launch a new service for people affected by the loss of a loved one through suicide.

The new Bereaved by Suicide Support Service will provide practical support and advice to guide loved ones through the grieving process and legal proceedings.

Suicide is the biggest killer of people under the age of 35¹ nationally and the largest killer of men under the age of 50¹. In 2023 alone, 73 people were recorded to have taken their own lives in Suffolk, alongside another 143 over the border in Essex.

Our CEO Jon Neal said: “Losing a loved one through suicide is one of the most difficult experiences one could imagine, with emotions ranging from grief to the anxiety which can arise from the coroner’s court process.

“We want to be there for those experiencing that reality – providing genuine, specialist support to loved ones, be they family, friends or colleagues.

“Our thanks go to our Mid and North East Essex Mind colleagues and our friends at Suffolk County Council for helping us bring this incredibly important service to Suffolk.”

Access to the confidential service is free, and will include one-to-one support on practical issues, advice around inquests, funerals and personal affairs, plus counselling, peer support groups and tailored support and signposting to further help.

Support can be provided in-person, online or by phone, with all services in Suffolk delivered by Suffolk Mind, commissioned by Suffolk County Council.

Those looking to access the new service can either self-refer directly by emailing info@bereavedbysuicidesupport.org or phoning 01206 764600. Referrals can also be made via a GP, social worker, school or the police.

Learn more about the service

• ¹Source Leading causes of death, UK: 2001 – 2018 www.ons.gov.uk
• ²Source www.ons.gov.uk
• ³ Suffolk had 73 recorded deaths by suicide in 2023 according to the Home Office for National Statistics.