Suicide rates in North Yorkshire were above the England average in figures covering 2021 to 2023, highlighting the importance of suicide prevention and support for people experiencing mental health difficulties.
The figures recorded a rate of 12.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000 people in North Yorkshire, compared with 10.7 per 100,000 across England.
The figures cover a three-year period rather than a single year. They provide an indication of the wider public health picture but should not be interpreted as the current annual rate.
The data is referenced in North Yorkshire Council’s Executive Performance Report for 2024–2025.
Differences between men and women
National statistics consistently show that suicide rates are substantially higher among men than women. However, suicide affects people across all age groups and backgrounds, and prevention efforts need to consider the needs of the wider population.
Local figures reported for 2021–2023 recorded a rate of 20.0 deaths per 100,000 among men in North Yorkshire, compared with 4.7 per 100,000 among women.
These are rates, not total numbers of deaths. They should be considered alongside the wider data and not used on their own to draw conclusions about the circumstances of individual deaths or the causes of differences between groups.
The Office for National Statistics publishes national analysis by age and sex, together with local authority data. Its report on suicide registrations in 2024 explains the national picture and the way the statistics are compiled.
Understanding the local picture
Suicide statistics need careful interpretation. Figures are generally recorded by registration date, rather than the date of death, because deaths involving a suspected suicide are subject to a coroner’s investigation. This can create a delay before a death appears in official statistics.
Geographical boundaries are also important when comparing figures over time. Harrogate was formerly a separate district within North Yorkshire, but local government reorganisation in April 2023 brought it into the current North Yorkshire unitary authority.
The figures cited here relate to the geographical definition used in the original reporting and should not automatically be treated as a current Harrogate-specific rate.
The Office for National Statistics provides local authority data through its Suicides in England and Wales by local authority dataset. The data includes suicide counts and rates and can be used to examine longer-term patterns.
Prevention and support
Suicide prevention involves public services, health professionals, community organisations and the people around someone who may be struggling. Family members, partners and friends may be concerned about a person’s wellbeing but unsure how to start a conversation or where to seek help.
North Yorkshire Council provides information about local mental health support through its local mental health services page.
Anyone who is struggling or worried about someone else can contact Samaritans free, at any time, on 116 123. Further guidance is available through the NHS’s information on getting help for suicidal thoughts.
Sources
- North Yorkshire Council Executive Performance Report 2024–2025.
- Office for National Statistics: Suicides in England and Wales by local authority.
- Office for National Statistics: Suicides in the United Kingdom, 2024 registrations.