Publish date: 14 April 2025
On the 4 April, NHS England published new guidance on suicide risk and safety and it’s available to read on their website.
The guidance promotes a shift towards a more holistic, person-centred approach rather than relying on risk prediction, which is unreliable because suicidal thoughts can change quickly. Instead, it recommends using a method based on understanding each person’s situation and managing their safety.
This guidance was developed in partnership with more than 120 research, clinical and lived experience experts and more than 20 professional organisations and is underpinned by the work of Prof Nav Kapur and colleagues involved in the National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Safety in Mental Health.
