Demands for Stormont to fund Mental Health Strategy

More than 6,500 voices were represented at Stormont as campaigners delivered a clear message to government: 'Fund the Mental Health Strategy'.

Representatives from Foyle Search and Rescue, PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity and Rural Support gathered on the steps of Parliament Buildings to coincide with the meeting of the All-Ministerial Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention on Thursday, March 12.

The #290Lives petition now carries over 6,500 signatures, reflecting the 290 deaths registered as suicide in the latest annual statistics.

Representatives from PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, Foyle Search and Rescue and Rural Support gathered at Stormont, Parliament Buildings to bring their campaign calling on the NI Executive to fully fund the mental health strategy.

A campaign spokesperson said: "Today, we stood at Stormont Parliament Buildings, alongside Foyle Search and Rescue and Rural Support to ensure ministers understand the strength of public support for meaningful action on suicide prevention.

"More than 6,500 people have signed the #290Lives petition, reflecting the 290 deaths registered as suicide in the latest statistics. We brought one clear message to government: 'Fund the Mental Health Strategy,'" they added.

"We gathered as the All-Ministerial Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention met, ensuring the voices of thousands across Northern Ireland were heard at decision-making level.

Representatives from PIPS Suicide Prevention Charity, Foyle Search and Rescue and Rural Support gathered at Stormont, Parliament Buildings to bring their campaign calling on the NI Executive to fully fund the mental health strategy.

“Behind every number is a life, a family and a community. The strength of public support is clear. What is needed now is sustained leadership and full funding.”