LANCASHIRE is among the parts of England worst affected by suicide which are to be given a funding boost to enhance local prevention services.

Money is to be provided for new targeted awareness campaigns, special psychological support for people in financial trouble and improved self-harm services in a number of regions across England.

Over a three-year period, £25 million will help suicide prevention and reduction schemes across the country.

The first areas to receive money are "worst affected" by suicide, officials said.

These include: Kent and Medway; Lancashire and South Cumbria; Norfolk and Waveney; South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw; Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire; Cornwall and Isles of Scilly; Coventry and Warwickshire and Durham, Darlington, Teesside, Hambleton, Richmondshire & Whitby.

The investment forms part of a wider government drive to reduce suicide rates.

Duncan Selbie, chief executive at Public Health England, added: "Suicide destroys lives and is devastating for the loved ones they leave behind.

"We need to do everything we can to offer more help to people in distress and this is a big step towards that."

Claire Murdoch, NHS England's director for mental health, said the additional funding and prevention plans "will mean more people in crisis will be able to get the crucial support they need".

- Samaritans offer free help through its helpline on 116 123 or email by jo@samaritans.org