Social activities and outreach help to prevent suicide in Leeds

Suicide Prevention Grants have supported more than 4,000 people in Leeds. The programme, delivered in partnership with Leeds City Council’s Public Health Team, has awarded 38 grants and £620,000 since it began in 2018.

The ground-breaking programme has been guided by a series of Leeds Suicide Audits (alongside wider data) and related Action Plans. It funded preventative work with men at first, then included other groups of people who were at higher risk of suicide in Leeds. 

Organisations funded in 2023 have been sharing the impact of their grants. So far, 689 people have participated in a range of social activities and targeted outreach work to reduce isolation. 67% of those supported said they had increased self-esteem and confidence. 55% of people say their mental health or wellbeing is better.

Barca Leeds are using their grant to provide mental health support to LGBTQIA+ young people and young adults. Their activities include mentoring, counselling, workshops and social activities. 48 people have taken part so far, and the grant has also enabled the organisation to offer an additional volunteer role.

A further round of Suicide Prevention Grants was awarded in 2024, with 8 Leeds organisations receiving funding. We also spoke to St George’s Crypt about their Suicide Prevention Grant and their ambitions for the future.