The latest ONS statistics (2025 registrations)

What the latest figures show

The Office for National Statistics published its latest suicide figures on 13 October 2026, and sadly they tell a familiar story. Suicide rates in England and Wales are holding at a worryingly high level.

In 2025, 6,162 deaths by suicide were registered in England and Wales. That’s 11.3 deaths for every 100,000 people, barely changed from 11.4 the year before. In England alone, the rate was 11.1 per 100,000 for the third year running.

We had hoped to see these numbers start to fall. Instead, they’re holding steady at some of the highest levels we’ve seen in years.

Here in the North East

Once again, the North East had the highest suicide rate of any English region, at 14.0 per 100,000 people. That’s lower than the 15.1 we reported last year, and we welcome any fall. But it’s still almost double the rate in London, and one year’s change doesn’t make a trend.

It’s also worth knowing that a death by suicide can’t be registered until after an inquest, which can take months. That means these figures can shift from year to year, so we’re cautious about reading too much into a single drop.

Men continue to be far more affected. The suicide rate for men was 17.5 per 100,000, more than three times the rate for women at 5.5. The highest rates were among men aged 50 to 54 and women aged 45 to 49, the same age groups as last year.

Behind every number

Behind each of these numbers is a person who was loved, and a family, friendship group or workplace left trying to make sense of their loss. That grief, guilt and confusion can last a lifetime. At the Headlight Project, we see it every day in the adults and children who come to us for therapy after losing someone to suicide.

That’s why our work matters so much. Our therapy gives people bereaved by suicide a safe space to grieve and find their way forward. Our training helps schools, colleges, workplaces and community groups spot the signs that someone is struggling, start vital conversations and feel confident reaching out.

These figures are a reminder that we all have a part to play. Let’s keep talking, keep learning, and keep showing up for one another.

If you’ve been bereaved by suicide, please know you’re not alone. Our Need Support page explains how to get in touch with us. And if you’re a teacher, manager, colleague or friend who wants to make a difference, we’d love to tell you more about our prevention training.

If you’re struggling right now, you can call Samaritans free, any time, on 116 123. In an emergency, always call 999.

Sources

• ONS: Suicides in England and Wales, 1981 to 2025
• Headlight Project: The latest ONS Statistics (October 2025)