Purpose

Thanet’s Suicide
Prevention Strategy aims to reduce suicide and self-harm in the
district by improving mental health support, strengthening
professional relationships, and addressing local challenges. This
is particularly necessary given the notably higher rates of suicide
in Thanet compared to the rest of Kent and the national
average.
 
The framework utilises data and
engagement to address these challenges, guided by local and
national strategies, and involves collaboration with the Kent and
Medway Suicide Prevention Programme team to develop the first
hyper-local strategy within the county.

Decision

Cabinet agreed to adopt the
Thanet Suicide Prevention Strategic Frameworkand delegate any minor amendments to the Head of
Neighbourhoods.

Reasons for the decision

· 
High Suicide Rates: Thanet has a notably higher suicide rate compared to the rest of
Kent and the national average (13.4 per 100,000 people).
· 
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues:
Mental health issues are high within the district,
evidenced by significant hospitalization due to mental health and
self-harm, and high levels of deprivation which exacerbate these
issues.
· 
Holistic Approach: Prevention requires a
holistic, district-wide approach to mental health, making suicide
prevention everyone's responsibility.
· 
Targeted Support: The strategy
identifies community strengths and addresses priority demographics
requiring improved, tailor-made support.

Alternative options considered

· 
Not adopt the strategy: Rejected because, whilst an option,
it would not meet the needs of Thanet residents. The Council is key
in working in partnership with other agencies to help people
improve their mental health.
· 
Make changes to the strategy prior to adoption: Rejected as
the strategy has been produced based on statistics, the needs of
residents, and joint working with other agencies.