Fermanagh and Omagh has highest suicide rate in the North

FERMANAGH and Omagh has the highest suicide rate per head of population of all 11 council areas in Northern Ireland, according to the latest statistics from NISRA.

The alarming figures have prompted calls for urgent action to tackle what has been described as an ongoing mental health crisis, with councillors set to demand increased investment in suicide prevention and mental health services across the district.

A proposal, to be brought before Tuesday night's meeting of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council in Enniskillen, warns of the devastating impact of mental ill-health on families and communities throughout the area.

Proposed by Councillor Elaine Brough and seconded by Councillor Colette McNulty, the motion highlights the particularly high toll suicide is taking on men.

It notes that approximately 80 per cent of suicide victims in Northern Ireland are male, with suicide remaining the leading cause of death among men under the age of 50.

The councillors are calling on the Department of Health to increase investment in community-based mental health and suicide prevention services specifically within Fermanagh and Omagh.

They are also seeking an update on the delivery of a new mental health unit in Omagh, while demanding the establishment of a local stakeholder forum dedicated to men's mental health and suicide prevention.

The proposed forum would bring together statutory agencies, community organisations and people with lived experience to identify practical measures to prevent further deaths.

Particular emphasis would be placed on improving the identification of young people at risk and ensuring that those struggling with their mental health can access appropriate support before reaching crisis point.

The motion also recognises the vital work being carried out by mental health charities across the district, which it says are saving lives every day despite operating with extremely limited resources.

It further acknowledges the role of the Western Health and Social Care Trust in supporting people with acute mental health conditions, including through facilities such as the Tyrone and Fermanagh Hospital.

The council itself would be asked to strengthen its response through the Integrated Wellbeing Network, working alongside mental health services, schools, youth organisations and community and voluntary groups to improve access to information, support and early intervention.

The motion also calls for renewed commitment to promoting positive mental health and suicide prevention, with particular support for initiatives encouraging men and boys to speak openly about their mental health and seek help.

The proposal comes against the backdrop of deeply concerning local suicide statistics and growing recognition of the need for better access to support, early intervention and properly resourced services.

Councillors will be asked to support the calls for action at tonight's meeting.