A new national Suicide Prevention Action Plan setting out Scotland’s priorities for the next three years has been published alongside an increased budget of at least £3 million for 2026 to 27.
The plan, Creating Hope Together Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2026 to 2029, aims to reduce suicide deaths, address inequalities that increase risk, and ensure anyone affected by suicide can access timely and compassionate support.
It represents the next phase of Scotland’s ten year suicide prevention strategy and is jointly led by the Scottish Government and COSLA.
The action plan focuses on four priorities including supporting people at greatest risk and creating safer environments, building understanding and capability across communities, ensuring access to timely support, and strengthening delivery through better data and collaboration.
The publication comes as the latest official figures from National Records of Scotland show the number of probable suicides in 2024 fell by 11 percent compared to 2023, marking the lowest level since 2017.
Ministers have stressed that while the reduction is welcome, there is no room for complacency.
Total mental health spending in Scotland is expected to exceed £1.5 billion in 2026 to 27, reflecting a wider commitment to prevention, early intervention and long term support.
Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur said every death by suicide has devastating and far reaching impacts.
“Every person lost to suicide is a tragedy with far reaching impacts on families, friends and communities.
“Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, and I am determined that everyone has timely access to the right mental health support.
“The new plan is focused on prevention, early intervention and reaching those who need support most, including young people and those impacted by social inequalities, stigma and discrimination.
COSLA health and social care spokesperson Paul Kelly said preventing suicide requires joined up action across society.
“Suicide prevention cannot be achieved by working in silos.
“We need to work across government and with our communities to address the complex factors involved and to promote better mental wellbeing.”
He said the new plan builds on learning from national and local delivery and accelerates progress towards ensuring people can access the right support at the right time.
Declan Harrigan, chief executive of S.M.I.L.E. Counselling, welcomed the plan and its emphasis on partnership working.
“The clear focus on children and young people, early intervention and addressing inequalities reflects what we know is needed to prevent suicide and save lives.”
He added that community based approaches, local training and reducing stigma are vital in creating suicide safer environments.
The plan draws on academic research, learning from Suicide Prevention Scotland, and the voices of people with lived experience, including children, young people and their families.
