British Prime Minister, Theresa May appoints first suicide prevention minister

British Prime Minister, Theresa May, has appointed the country’s first ever Minister for Suicide Prevention in an effort to cut the number of people taking their own lives.

According to the British government press release on Thursday, May announced that health minister Jackie Doyle-Price is to become the UK’s first Minister for Suicide Prevention.

“The appointment was made on Tuesday to mark the World Mental Health Day held on Wednesday, a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.’’

The British government says nearly 4,500 people take their own lives each year in England and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 45.

The prime minister also announced other plans to tackle suicide problems in Britain.

“New government funding up to 1.8 million pounds (about 2.4 million dollars) will be raised to “help ensure the charity can continue to provide immediate and lifesaving support to everyone who needs it, 24 hours daily.’’

(NAN)