The Executive Working Group on Wellbeing, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention held its seventh meeting. Ministers attended the session in Northern Ireland.

Ellen Finlay, Samaritans Development and Policy Officer for Northern Ireland, presented research commissioned by the charity. The research examines socio-economic drivers of suicide across economic, political, social and cultural areas in Northern Ireland. It states that a cross-government approach is needed to address these structural risk factors.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt addressed health inequalities as a key focus since taking office. He stated that collaboration across departments is required, especially for mental health and suicide prevention. Nesbitt noted a recent increase in deaths by suicide and the need to tackle social determinants. He thanked Samaritans for their work in providing services and shaping policy.

The meeting covered plans for suicide awareness training in the Northern Ireland Civil Service. A training package is under development for rollout in coming months. It will start in the Department of Health and extend to other departments.