Figures reveal how many Epping Forest residents have lost their lives to suicide – as campaigners call for the Government to bolster prevention following the coronavirus pandemic.

It comes as organisations raise awareness for World Suicide Prevention Day, held annually on September 10.

Office for National Statistics data shows 26 people were registered as having died by suicide in Epping Forest between 2018 and 2020 – the latest available data.

It means the suicide rate in the area was 7.4 per 100,000 people over the period.

That was up from 5 between 2017 and 2019, and lower than the rate across England and Wales of 10.5 deaths per 100,000 people.

Jacqui Morrissey, assistant director of research and influencing at Samaritans, said: “Any life lost to suicide is a tragedy and we know that the after-effects of the extraordinary last 18 months will continue to impact people’s lives in the years to come.”

“Funding should be made available in the forthcoming spending review for targeted investment in local areas to further develop and deliver practical support services to prevent suicide among groups at the highest risk, particularly middle-aged men.”

Contact Samaritans for free at any time on 116 123, or visit www.samaritans.org