ST Helens’ MP has called for “uniformity of care” across the country after it was revealed that St Helens has the fourth highest suicide rate in England.

Earlier this week the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that there were 28 recorded suicides in St Helens in 2017, with intelligence suggesting that number will rise this year.

The news prompted calls from readers for greater access to mental health support within the borough.

Now, Marie Rimmer, MP for St Helens South and Whiston, said the root causes that have contributed to the rise in suicides need to be addressed.

“I am extremely concerned to hear that St Helens’ suicide rate is the fourth highest in England,” she said.

“Unfortunately, the figure is likely to be much higher as death by suicide has to be conclusively proven before it is recorded as such, while some are recorded as open or narrative verdicts.

“Every suicide is a tragedy for that individual’s family, friends and all those who love them.

“We need to tackle the root causes behind the growth in suicide rates over recent years, and I’ve been actively involved with this issue.”

Ms Rimmer recently hosted an event in Parliament with CALM to call for a government minister to be publicly responsible and accountable for suicide prevention and bereavement support.

CALM is a charity that is dedicated to preventing male suicide – the single biggest killer of men under the age of 45 in the UK.

“We urgently need uniformity of care across the country, and high-quality support for residents of St Helens and across the country to ensure that those who are suffering do not feel that suicide is their only option,” she said.

“It is vital that we reach vulnerable people before the point of crisis, and it is heart-breaking that some men are particularly at risk because they feel they cannot speak out.

“I believe it is the Government’s duty to put in place a ministerial responsibility for suicide prevention to address the chronic imbalances in care nationwide and protect some of the most vulnerable in our society.”

St Helens North MP Conor McGuinn said the “shocking statistics” underline the need for an increased focus on mental health provision for young men in St Helens.

“There is some important work happening to tackle this tragic scourge in our community,” he said.

“The State of Mind project, which works through our Rugby League clubs is one such example.

“We need to create a culture where young men understand that it’s OK to talk about their problems and know that it’s not weak to feel sad or vulnerable.

“I will be meeting with local charities, support groups and health agencies to discuss what we can do to end this awful waste of young life.”