17th September- Jack Abbott backs guidance to prevent Orwell Bridge suicides

I welcome the new guidance from National Highways aimed at reducing suicide risks on roads and bridges, including the Orwell Bridge here in Ipswich.

Every life lost represents a person, a family, and a community left devastated, so it’s encouraging to see National Highways recognising their role in suicide prevention. Measures like barriers, improved lighting, and emergency phones can help save lives.

But physical changes alone are not enough. We must continue tackling the root causes of suicide by ensuring people in Ipswich and across Suffolk can access the right mental health support when they need it.

Partnership working between agencies, local authorities, and the NHS is vital — and our Government is investing in new staff, resources, and facilities to strengthen that support.

This new guidance is an important step forward, and I hope it’s implemented swiftly to help keep people safe.