Male suicide rates in 2019 were at their highest rates for two decades, official data has revealed.
Figures from the Office of National Statistics show there were 5,691 suicides registered in England and Wales in 2019 – with men accounting for almost 75%.
The worst-affected demographic were males aged 45-49.
ONS said the suicide rate may be higher among middle-aged men due to economic hardship, isolation and alcoholism – with this demographic also less likely to seek help.
Data also revealed that suicides among females aged 10 to 24 have increased “significantly” in the past eight years.
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Dominic McGregor, co-founder of Social Chain in Manchester, who said “therapy saved his life”, expressed his dismay at the data; saying there needed to be “genuine support for men going through difficult times.”
“This news breaks my heart,” he wrote on social media.
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“Given the world we’re in, it’s an issue which is going to increase.”
SUICIDES HAVE REACHED A 20 YEAR HIGHThis news breaks my heart. I feel like as a society we’re coming a long way with…
If you – or anyone you know – is experiencing issues, there are several places you can contact for support:
Manchester Mind – An organisation that has supported people in Manchester for over 30 years. Most services are now available over the phone, by email or video call. Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463.
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The GM Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust – The local NHS helpline is open 24/7 which you can call any time, day or night, if you feel your mental health is beginning to suffer: 0800 953 0285 .
CALM – The Campaign Against Living Miserably supports people via phone and webchat. You can call 0800 58 58 58 or speak to a support worker online. Open 5pm to midnight.
Samaritans – The Manchester & Salford Samaritans offer emotional support by telephone and email. The phone lines and email support are available 24/7. Call 116 123 or visit the website.
News
Manchester United confirm Antony will return to training following assault allegations
Danny Jones
Manchester United winger Antony is heading back to training amid his multiple assault allegations.
Antony‘s case is still ongoing, with a total of three women coming out to accuse him of domestic abuse — chiefly, his ex-girlfriend Gabriela Cavallin, who was first to raise concerns surrounding his alleged behaviour — but his cooperation through the investigation has led them to revise their position.
Issuing an update on Friday morning confirming that the forward with be brought back into the fold until the situation is resolved.
A club statement reads as follows: “Since allegations were first made in June, Antony has co-operated with police inquiries in both Brazil and the UK, and he continues to do so.
“As Antony’s employer, Manchester United has decided that he will resume training at Carrington, and be available for selection, while police inquiries proceed. This will be kept under review pending further developments in the case.
“As a club, we condemn acts of violence and abuse. We recognise the importance of safeguarding all those involved in this situation, and acknowledge the impact these allegations have on survivors of abuse.”
Erik ten Hag‘s side plays their second game against Crystal Palace in less than a week after beating them 3-0 in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday and while it is not thought Antony will be brought straight back into the team, he will be available for selection moving forward.
United currently sit ninth in the Premier League with three wins and three losses to their name.
Man jailed after ‘disturbing and terrifying’ burglary at young woman’s Altrincham home
Emily Sergeant
A man has been handed jail time after a “disturbing and terrifying” burglary took place at a young woman’s home in Altrincham.
The court heard this week how Jason Edwards, from Sale in Trafford, turned up to an address in the Lloyd Gardens area of Altrincham where two women in their 20s were staying for the weekend visiting their friend at around 2am on Sunday 12 August 2022.
After knocking on the front door while brandishing a large meat cleaver, the two women opened the door and Edwards proceeded to push past them to force his way into the property.
The 36-year-old then began to search every room, while still carrying the horrific weapon and shouting at the women.
He then left the property shortly after, and the two victims immediately called the police.
Lloyd Gardens in Altrincham, where the burglary happened / Credit: Google Maps
The victims’ friend – who lived at the address, and was also a woman in her 20s – was still on a night out when she was alerted to Edwards being at her front door by a doorbell camera notification on her phone.
After pleading guilty to aggravated burglary and possession of a bladed article earlier this week (Tuesday 26 September), Edwards was handed a seven and a half year custodial sentence, as well as a further five years on licence.
#JAILED | Man jailed for 7 and a half years after ‘terrifying burglary’ of a young woman’s home in #Altrincham.
Detective Sergeant Jacob Corrigan, of GMPs Trafford CID, described the burglary as a “disturbing and terrifying incident” for the victims.
“The victims had returned home from enjoying a day out with friends, before being put through this ordeal, which understandably made them genuinely fear for their lives,” DS Corrigan said Edwards was sentenced this week.
“I am pleased that Edwards has faced justice for his actions today and will be spending some time in prison, where he will be able to reflect upon his poor choices.”
DS Corrigan also reiterated that GMP “will not tolerate this type of violent crime”.
The Manc -
3rd September 2020 
