Office for National Statistics reports increase in Brent Centre for Young People study

A new study has revealed an alarming London-wide increase in people who have completed suicide and suicide risk amongst young people aged 10-24, outstripping by far the national rate of increase.

The ONS data was requested by the Brent Centre for Young People, a north-west London mental health charity for young people. The figures, which cover 2013-2016, show that youth suicides - in 10 to 24 year olds in London - rose by 85% over three years.

This compares to an 11% increase over three years across England and Wales. To put that into context, the data shows a national rise from 466 to 518 suicides, compared to the near doubling of suicide in London (from 47 to 87 completions) in children aged 10 to 24 years old.

The data also shows an increase in suicides in London children aged 10-19 years old, which doubled over three years, from 14 to 29 deaths, compared to the national data of 148 to 184 deaths - an increase of 24%.

“It is shocking and worrying that suicides amongst young people are on the rise and have risen so sharply in London,” CEO and Clinical Director of the Brent Centre, Dr Maxim de Sauma, said. “When young people with crippling or disabling mental health conditions are not given the support they need, it wastes lives - and what we are seeing in London and elsewhere is a needless waste of young lives.”

“That young people in London are being worse affected is deeply concerning and asks the question if young people in London are perhaps not being as well supported as they are elsewhere.”

The Brent Centre for Young People works with over 600 young people a year from across London and specialises in suicide prevention and successful treatment of self-harm, eating disorders, exam anxiety and more.

“Even one suicide is a tragedy for young people and leaves so much devastation in its wake. It is essential to invest more resources now in education and health to prevent any more loss of life.”

For mental health support or to find an accredited professional near to you, visit Counselling Directory.

Samaritans operates a 24-7 service to talk to somebody in a safe and confidential environment. Call 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org.

Children can get free counselling and advice by calling Childline on 080011.