10th September 2025

Comment from Billy Watson, Chief Executive of SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) for World Suicide Prevention Day:

“More than two people a day are dying by suicide in Scotland. Each death by suicide is so much more than just a number. Each death is a person whose loss is felt deeply by their loved ones, colleagues and community. World Suicide Prevention Day gives us all the opportunity to come together, reduce stigma and encourage the open, honest conversations that help save lives. 

“SAMH is one of Scotland’s biggest suicide prevention trainers, and a leading member of Suicide Prevention Scotland – a community of people and organisations delivering Scotland’s suicide prevention strategy. Our key contributions include coordinating United To Prevent Suicide, the social movement for anyone who wants to take part in suicide prevention activity in Scotland, and the Lived and Living Experience Panel, which ensures the voice of people with experience of suicide guides work across Scotland.  

“In the North East, our dedicated suicide prevention team works closely with local community groups to tackle stigma, while our Workplace team is collaborating with the Construction Industry Training Board to deliver a suicide prevention training programme tailored to the Scottish construction industry. 

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who supports this important work, and we want to be in a position to do more, which is why we’re calling on the next Scottish Government to increase and ring-fence suicide prevention funding. 

“The current commitment of £2.8 million is lower than that of comparable countries, such as Ireland, which is similar in population size and spread to Scotland, and spent €15million (£13 million) on suicide prevention in 2024. Ireland experiences half the number of suicides we do in Scotland annually. 

“The people of Scotland are being underserved. Increased, protected funds for local authorities are vital so that people anywhere in Scotland can access barrier-free support that prioritises their needs, ranging from critical crisis support to early intervention and preventative mental health support.   

“The SAMH website has more information about how to support people with thoughts of suicide, so you can feel informed and empowered to help someone when they need it most.”