Jacqui Morrissey, Assistant Director of Influencing at Samaritans, said:
“Today’s data paints a bleak picture that demands action. People with minoritised sexual orientations have a drastically higher risk of suicide and self-harm and these figures must now force Government to address this inequality issue before more lives are lost.
“While this data being published for the first time is a hugely important step forward for suicide prevention, we know the full picture is incomplete. Barriers still exist to people feeling able to disclose their sexual orientation, while a significant number of people who self-harm don’t attend hospital, so sadly the reality could be even starker.
“Urgent action is needed across healthcare to tackle the barriers that LGBTQ+ people face to getting the support they really need. Local community spaces by and for LGBTQ+ people can also be a lifeline but far too often fill the gaps in statutory services. More investment is needed now. Government can no longer drag its feet; lives depend on getting this right.”
Having contacted Samaritans during their lowest moments, Isaac (they/them) helped shape the charity's LGBTQ+ policy position.
Reflecting on the new figures, Isaac said: “In the last couple of years, there have been people in my life that have died by suicide, so today’s figures are difficult reading.
“I was always aware that I was different. As LGBTQ+ people, we grow up in families that don’t mirror who we are. My parents just never acknowledged that I was LGBTQ+.
“As a teenager, my struggle to accept my sexuality, as well as feeling discriminated against, affected my mental health. It led to depression and anxiety, and I’ve struggled with my mental health for all of my adult life. It was very difficult to get mental health support that addressed sexual orientation or identity – there were just so many walls.
“I went to statutory services, but because of the lack of respect, dignity, sensitivity and care, I just knew they weren't places I would go back to. I was lucky I found voluntary organisations that were set up to support LBGTQ+ community – and I had three years of therapy that got me to a good place for a while.
“One day, I was going through a particularly difficult time I was in so much pain to just be here; I couldn’t bear it. I had a conversation with a Samaritans volunteer, and I just felt listened to. I didn’t feel judged or that I was a trouble.
“Having someone listen to you takes you further away from those feelings of not wanting to be here. And wanting not to be here became a bit quieter.
“I really hope this new data is used to move society towards a place that fully considers LGBTQ+ experiences, and leads to the improvements needed to better support us.”