A new plan has been announced to try to reduce the number of suicides in Bromley.

Figures show that on average 20 lives are taken by suicide each year in the borough with 42 per cent of the suicides involving people aged 30-59.

On World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10) the council announced a plan to reduce preventable deaths.

Bromley Council and NHS Bromley Clinical Group is aiming to bring together Bromley services like mental health and substance misuse to help identify people at risk.

Councillor Diane Smith said: "In addition to the very real impact on both the individual and their family and friends, suicide also affects our society as a whole.

"Our prevention plan seeks to further support our frontline services to identify people at risk of suicide early, and get them the support they need."

The executive cllr for adult care and health added: "Suicide is a preventable tragedy and by working collaboratively together to improve support, prevention, education, we can make a real difference."

READ: Bromley woman 'overwhelmed' after walk in memory of friend who died by suicide

Bromley ranks 16th out of 33 London boroughs on suicide rates.

Dr Atul Arora, a Bromley GP specialising in mental health, added: "Preventing suicide is everyone’s business. We can all play a part in reaching out to those who need help.

"GP's and primary care services in particular have a critical role in suicide prevention and supporting vulnerable people to get the help they need.

"I am delighted that our plan will focus on helping those most at risk and will also support the families and communities who are left behind."

If you are suffering with mental health the Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123.

Below are the six main areas the suicide prevention plan will focus on, as outlined by Bromley Council:

1) Reduce the risk of suicide in key high risk groups

2) Tailor approaches to improve mental health in specific groups such as children and young people

3) Reduce the means of suicide by developing clear referral pathways

4) Provide better information and support to those bereaved or affected by suicide

5) Support the media in delivering sensitive approaches to suicide and suicidal behaviour

6) Support research, data collection and monitoring. This will help give us a better understanding so we can target interventions based on evidence.