New data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) on Tuesday has revealed a concerning rise in suicide deaths across Cumbria, prompting urgent calls for increased action from local council leaders.
In the Cumberland Council area, the number of recorded deaths by suicide rose from 40 in 2024 to 44 in 2025. A similar upward trend was observed in the Westmorland and Furness Council area, where deaths increased from 26 in 2024 to 31 in 2025.
Breaking down the figures, the data shows that men continue to be disproportionately affected. Of the 44 deaths in Cumberland, 36 were men and eight were women, while in Westmorland and Furness, 22 of the 31 deaths were men.
Councillor Justin McDermott, Cumberland Council’s Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Communities, described the 10 per cent increase in his jurisdiction as “heart-breaking.”
“Every one of these deaths is heart-breaking,” Coun McDermott said. “These aren’t just statistics, they are people who were loved, and families, friends and communities who will live with that loss.”
While Coun McDermott welcomed the Government’s recent commitment of £16.1 billion for NHS mental health spending and the planned addition of 8,500 mental health workers, he emphasized that the current trajectory demands more localized intervention.
“The increase in deaths tells us plainly that we still have a huge amount of work to do,” he added. “That is why Zero Suicide Cumberland matters so much to me.”
The council’s recent report, The Big Question, published in March, serves as the foundation for the local strategy. The report, which incorporated the experiences of 800 residents, highlighted that many people in the region saw their mental health deteriorate while waiting for professional support. Consequently, the report urged for swifter access to services.
Coun McDermott pledged to honor the trust of those who shared their stories by implementing the report’s recommendations. These include specialized self-harm care for men, suicide-specific support for women, and targeted outreach for older adults who may face unique barriers such as isolation or the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
The Zero Suicide Cumberland vision focuses on three pillars: centering lived experience in prevention efforts, increasing the visibility of support resources, and fostering stronger partnerships between the council, the NHS, voluntary organizations, and local employers.
“We should never accept a suicide as inevitable,” Coun McDermott said.
Support services remain available for those in need. The Samaritans provide a 24/7 listening service and can be reached by calling 116 123 at any time.
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