An MHK has welcomed the introduction of a group dedicated to preventing suicides in the island.

Jason Moorhouse (Arbory, Castletown and Malew) asked the Chief Minister a range of questions on suicide and what the government is doing to prevent it.

Howard Quayle said that the Council of Ministers’ social policy and children’s committee considered and agreed to the establishment of a suicide prevention group, coordinated by the Public Health Directorate in the Cabinet Office.

Mr Quayle added: ’During the emergency proclamation period and the introduction of measures to respond to coronavirus pandemic, the Silver Community Health and Wellbeing Group formed a Suspected Suicide Rapid Response (SSRR) group.

’This group worked to identify themes, such as methods, locations, clusters and high-risk groups, and to map, risk assess and coordinate support for those left behind.

’While the SSRR is a small component of any wider suicide prevention action plan, it will provide immediate ction following a report of a suspected suicide.’

The Department of Education, Sport and Culture also has established protocols to ensure support is in place for young people affected by a suspected suicide.

Mr Moorhouse told the Courier that he was encouraged by Mr Quayle’s response.

He added: ’I hope that as a result of this question, the community awareness of the Silver Community Health and Wellbeing Group will have increased. The team was created this summer to provide a rapid response to suspected cases of suicide.

’I believe many people will be reassured by such proactive action by the government.

’The action plans in place at DESC, to help respond to sudden deaths is reassuring, when these issues arise action has to be swift and of a good standard. When an incident of this type occurs, people need a lot of support.

’The ripple effects are wide and deep and affect many people in the community, some of who would only have limited links with the deceased. The "Are You OK" campaign is simple, but gets people talking and potentially provides that much-needed bridge from a challenging place.’

Mr Moorhouse had also asked about what support is given to police officers who are called to suicides, saying the ’flexibility and availability of support has a potentially positive aspect’.

However, he warned: ’I do have some concerns about there being no clear policy and no standard approach. There is the potential danger that serving officers will simply suppress their emotions and possibly be expected to put on"a brave face".’