The latest suicide statistics. Why men’s peer support matters more than ever
The latest suicide statistics for England and Wales have been released, and the numbers remind us why men’s mental health must remain a priority.
In 2024, there were 6,190 suicides registered—that’s 11.4 deaths per 100,000 people, very similar to 2023’s rate of 11.3. Of those deaths, 4,599 were men. The male suicide rate has remained almost unchanged at 17.6 deaths per 100,000 men, compared to 17.4 in 2023.
The most concerning group continues to be men aged 50 to 54, with 27.5 deaths per 100,000. These figures show that while progress has been made in awareness, many men are still struggling in silence.
That’s where groups like ‘For Men To Talk’ come in.
Founded in 2019 by Luke Newman, ‘For Men To Talk’ gives men a place to open up about how they’re feeling—without judgment, pressure, or stigma. It’s a simple but powerful idea: men supporting other men through honest conversation.
“Talking doesn’t make you weak,” says founder Luke Newman. “It shows incredible strength to open up and share what’s going on inside your mind.”
The group offers a relaxed and friendly environment for men dealing with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, or grief. Conversations can cover anything—from relationships and work to daily stress and self-doubt.
There are no rules or regulations, no registration or referral needed. Men can speak as much or as little as they want. The aim is to make it as easy as possible to take that first step—simply showing up and being part of the conversation.
Since starting in Bedfordshire, ‘For Men To Talk’ has grown into a wide network offering physical, virtual, walking, and even fishing meetings. These now take place in:
- Ampthill, Biggleswade, Blunham, Potton, Shefford, Flitwick, Sandy, and Bromham (Bedfordshire)
- St Neots and Gamlingay (Cambridgeshire)
- Hitchin (Hertfordshire)
- Stockport (Cheshire)
In addition, the team has launched ‘’For Men To Talk’ About Autism’—a dedicated group for autistic men, men with autistic family members, or those waiting for diagnosis. It’s a welcoming, inclusive space where experiences around autism can be discussed openly and safely.
Groups like this show that men’s mental health support doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it just takes a chat—a shared story, a nod of understanding, a reminder that you’re not alone.
As these new statistics highlight, too many men still feel unable to reach out. But with community-led groups like ‘For Men To Talk’, that’s starting to change. Step by step, conversation by conversation, more men are finding hope and connection.