Suicide Audit 2020-2024

This suicide audit reviewed cases of individuals living in Cheshire West and Chester who died in the borough, and also individuals who died in the borough but were not a resident. Cases relate to inquests that concluded between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024. In total, 196 cases were included in the audit, including 190 cases with a suicide verdict and 6 narrative cases indicating suicidal intent.

 The audit provides a detailed analysis of local suicide patterns, risk factors, service contacts, and opportunities for prevention. The findings show a clear upward trend in suicide rates across the borough, driven largely by an increase in male suicide. The audit identifies several modifiable risks, areas of unmet need, and system gaps that require coordinated action across health, social care, community and voluntary services.