A SUPPORT service for those bereaved by a suspected suicide has received additional funding so that it can continue residents.

AMPARO Fylde Coast and AMPARO East Lancashire have both had their funding extended until March 2020, offering vital support to people thanks to national funding aimed at preventing suicides and supporting those bereaved through suicide in the region.

The service provides support for anyone affected by suicide, including family members, friends or colleagues.

Louise Thomas, suicide prevention lead for Healthier Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: “It’s fantastic news that AMPARO can continue to offer its invaluable service to people going through the unimaginable.

"People have told us how lengthy and complex the process following a suspected suicide can be.

"So having AMPARO available to offer expert advice and guidance to support people through this time, is invaluable."

Support provided by AMPARO includes one-to-one individual support, help with media enquiries, support and guidance up to and including the inquest and signposting to further services.

Confirmation of the continuation of AMPARO’s services will be shared with all front-line workers who are most likely to be in contact with those affected by a suspected suicide - including GPs, firefighters, paramedics, police officers and coroners.

Ms Thomas added: “We have one of the highest rates of suicide in the country and we know that those bereaved by suicide are at much higher risk, therefore it is crucial we are able to provide immediate help and support to those bereaved.”