Comparative insights into suicide prevention: a cross-sectional analysis of English local authority audit reports and action plans.

Background: Suicide rates in the UK are rising, highlighting the need for effective local interventions. This study examined whether English local authorities (LAs) have conducted suicide audits, key findings and whether these were used to develop their action plans.

Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed suicide audits and action plans from 153 LAs, using data collected from Freedom of Information requests, using statistical (Chi-square test) and thematic analysis.

Results: Of 153 LAs, 8 did not respond. Of the remaining 145 LAs, 60% conducted audits. Data from 88 suicide audits and 113 action plans were analysed. Males between 45 and 64 years old were found to have the highest incidence of suicide; coastal LAs reported significantly higher suicide rates than the national average (P = .009). Locations (60.2%) and methods of suicide (62.5%) were recognized as key factors for intervention.

Conclusions: The aim and scope of suicide audits and action plans vary significantly. Identified risk factors were higher in coastal LAs, and support for men remains inadequate. Standardized guidelines could improve the impact and consistency of data collection and assist in the development of robust strategies to tackle suicide prevention initiatives.