The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has released key data on suicides in England and Wales for 2024 registrations, showing 6,190 suicides registered at a rate of 11.4 per 100,000 people. This marks stability compared to 2023, with males at 17.6 per 100,000 and females at 5.7 per 100,000.
Overview of 2024 Suicide Registrations
Suicide statistics from the ONS rely on coroner certifications, leading to registration delays where only 38.7% of suicides registered in 2024 actually occurred that year. The age-standardised mortality rate (ASMR) stood at 11.4 per 100,000 for those aged 10 and over, similar to 11.3 in 2023. In England, the rate was 11.1 (5,717 deaths), remaining steady from 11.2, while Wales saw an increase to 15.7 (436 deaths) from 14.0.
This data uses the accredited definition: intentional self-harm for ages 10+, undetermined intent injury/poisoning for 15+. Rates are adjusted for age using the 2013 European Standard Population, enabling fair comparisons across regions and over time.
Gender Breakdown in Suicide Rates
Males dominated with 17.6 suicides per 100,000 in 2024, up slightly from 17.4 in 2023, while female rates held at 5.7. In Wales, male rates rose to 25.0 from 22.0, and female to 6.8 from 6.3. England’s male and female rates showed minimal change.
The persistent male-female gap, with rates over three times higher for men, highlights gender-specific risks often linked to methods and societal factors, though ONS data focuses on registrations.
Age-Specific Suicide Patterns
The highest age-specific rate affected males aged 50-54 at 27.5 per 100,000, shifting from the 45-49 age group in the previous year. Females peaked at 45-49 years with 7.9 per 100,000, down from 9.2 in the 50-54 age group. Overall, the 50-54 years age group has led at 17.0 per 100,000 since 2021.
Younger groups showed lower rates, but volatility exists due to small numbers; unreliable rates (under 20 deaths) are suppressed. Long-term trends from 1981 reveal significant shifts, influenced by the 2018 change in standard of proof from certainty to balance of probabilities.
Regional Disparities Across England and Wales
Wales recorded the highest ASMR at 15.7, exceeding England’s 11.1. Among English regions, the North East had the highest rate at 15.1 per 100,000, while London had the lowest at 8.3. Yorkshire and the Humber rose from 12.2 to 13.7; the East of England fell from 10.9 to 9.6.
These variations are tied to socioeconomic factors, though the ONS emphasises that registration-based data excludes non-residents from regional figures. Local authority datasets allow for more detailed analysis, but short-term fluctuations warrant caution.
Know more.
Common Methods of Suicide in 2024
Hanging, strangulation, and suffocation remained dominant at 56.6% (3,504 deaths), down from 58.8% (3,569) in 2023. Poisoning rose to 21.5% (1,331 deaths) from 19.8% (1,202). Other methods, such as firearms or fire, comprised the remainder.
Method shifts may reflect access or prevention efforts, with hanging’s prevalence underscoring intervention challenges.
Suicide Occurrences vs Registrations
Occurrences lag due to inquest times: median 199 days in England, 269 in Wales. For 2023 occurrences (using data to March 2025), 5,570 deaths yielded 10.4 per 100,000, stable from 2022’s 10.5. This contrasts registration highs since 1999, as delays inflate recent figures.
| Year | Finished Deaths (to 2024) | Rate (Finished) | Reg Deaths (15-Month) | Rate (15-Month) |
| 2023 | 5,418 | 10.1 | 5,570 | 10.4 |
| 2022 | 5,846 | 11.1 | 5,554 | 10.5 |
| 2021 | 5,819 | 11.1 | 5,379 | 10.3 |
Stable post-2018 trends emerge with comparable registration windows.
Impact of 2018 Standard of Proof Change
Probability-based methodologies likely boosted counts without creating series discontinuity. This affects comparability, especially regarding the 2017-2018 uptick.
Extreme Heat and Suicide Links
The new SOSCHI project estimates 614 heat-attributable suicides in England (2001-2023) and 48 in Wales. [Statistical ratios need clarification: “1 in 179 and 159 overall, 1 in 32/29 in July”]. Risk rises with top 2.5% temperatures (e.g., 21.6°C in London), varying regionally; the South West shows the inverse pattern. Modelled data highlights climate-mental health connections.
Historical Trends Since 1981
Registration rates peaked post-1981, dipped mid-2010s, rose recently; occurrences stable at approximately 10.4 – 10.7 since 2018.
Data Quality and Limitations
Accredited statistics cover populations via death registrations; ASMRs are reliable when there are over 20 deaths. Delays prevent real-time use. OHID and PHW offer suspected case surveillance instead. Revisions affect recent years most significantly.
Prevention Strategies and Resources
UK strategies include England’s 2023-2028 plan and Wales’ self-harm focus. Samaritans (116 123) and NHS pages aid those struggling. Journalists follow Samaritans’ guidelines.
FAQ: Suicide Statistics England and Wales 2024
1.What was the total number of suicides registered in 2024?
6,190 suicides at 11.4 per 100,000.
2.How do male and female suicide rates compare in 2024?
Males: 17.6 per 100,000; females: 5.7, stable from 2023.
3.Which age group had the highest suicide rate?
Males 50-54 (27.5 per 100,000); females 45-49 (7.9).
4.Is Wales’ rate higher than England’s?
15.7 vs 11.1 per 100,000, up from 14.0.
5.What is the most common suicide method?
Hanging/suffocation (56.6%).
6.How do registrations differ from occurrences?
38.7% same-year; 2023 occurrences stable at 10.4 per 100,000.
7.Did climate affect suicides?
614 in England, 48 in Wales (2001-2023), tied to extreme heat.
8.Where to find local authority data?
ONS datasets for 2001-2024.
9.What changed in 2018 for suicide classification?
Standard of proof lowered, increasing counts.
10.How to get support?
Samaritans: 116 123, NHS suicidal thoughts page.
Read our detailed blog – “Avoid These Common Pitfalls After the UK NMC CBT in 2026” – to ensure your journey stays on track.
Why Wait? Just Merlin It!
Free Consultation – Chat now with a Mentor.
