Category: Equality & Diversity

New ONS Report Reveals Elevated Self-Harm and Suicide Rates Among LGB+ Adults

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has released a ground breaking analysis linking 2021 Census data with NHS records, revealing that adults identifying as LGB+ in England and Wales face significantly higher rates of self-harm and suicide compared to their heterosexual counterparts.

Key Findings:

  • The age-standardised rate of intentional self-harm for LGB+ individuals was 1,508.9 per 100,000 people between March 2021 and December 2023, compared to 598.4 per 100,000 for heterosexual individuals.
  • The suicide rate among LGB+ adults stood at 50.3 per 100,000 people, more than double the rate of 23.1 per 100,000 observed in heterosexual adults.
  • Bisexual individuals exhibited the highest self-harm rates within the LGB+ group, at 1,669.5 per 100,000 people.
  • The risk of self-harm was notably higher among LGB+ females, with a rate 2.8 times greater than that of heterosexual females.
  • Young adults aged 16 to 24 identifying as LGB+ had a self-harm rate 2.8 times higher than their heterosexual peers.

These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mental health support and suicide prevention strategies within the LGB+ community.

Read the full report: ONS – Self-harm and suicide by sexual orientation, England and Wales

The Role of Social Prescribing Interventions in Addressing Health Inequalities in the United Kingdom: A Narrative Review.

SP is important in addressing health inequalities, particularly by targeting sociopsychological factors and managing long-term conditions. However, the complexity of these inequalities requires more tailored models and research. None of the studies examined SP within NHS National Health Inequalities framework such as Core20PLUS5. Overcoming barriers such as resource limitations, training gaps and accessibility challenges, while strengthening link-worker relationships, is essential.

Health Social Care in the Community – 2025 – Melam – The Role of Social Prescribing Interventions in Addressing HealthDownload

The King’s Fund: Understanding the Health of Ethnic Minority Women in England

The King’s Fund’s recent report delves into the health disparities experienced by women from ethnic minority groups in England. It reveals that while some groups have lower overall mortality rates than their White British counterparts, they face higher incidences of certain preventable conditions and maternal mortality. Factors such as socio-economic status, cultural assimilation, and structural racism contribute to these inequalities. The report emphasizes the need for culturally competent healthcare services and targeted policies to address these disparities.

Read the full report: The King’s Fund

New Books for Our Teenage Collection!

Looking for something fresh to read? We’ve just added some fantastic new books to our Teenage Collection! Whether you need advice on mental health, body image, social media, or identity, these books have got you covered. From Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys to Social Anxiety Relief for Teens, there’s something for everyone.

Come check them out at the library!

UK Disability History Month

UK Disability History Month is a chance to reflect on the history, challenges, and achievements of disabled people. It’s a time to celebrate progress while recognizing that barriers still exist and to commit to building a more inclusive future.

This month encourages us to listen to the voices of disabled individuals, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for change. By learning from the past and engaging with the present, we can all play a part in creating a society that values and supports everyone.

Let’s take this opportunity to educate ourselves, share stories, and make a difference—because inclusion benefits us all.

Transgender Awareness Week

Transgender Awareness Week is a time to uplift trans voices, share stories, and work toward greater acceptance. This week highlights the resilience of transgender people while addressing the discrimination many still face. It’s an opportunity for allies to show support, educate themselves, and advocate for a more inclusive society. Let’s come together to ensure everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of gender identity.

Tackling health inequalities: seven priorities for the NHS – The King’s Fund

Drawing on The King’s Fund’s five-year programme of work on health inequalities and tackling the worst health outcomes, which includes insights from stakeholders, partners and people with lived experience, this long read outlines what we think the anticipated 10-year health plan should focus on to help the NHS do more to tackle these challenges.

Tackling Health Inequalities | Seven Priorities For The NHS | The King’s Fund (kingsfund.org.uk)

Black History Month

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to acknowledge the significant contributions of Black healthcare professionals to the NHS.

Despite facing challenges like discrimination and underrepresentation, Black healthcare workers have persisted, breaking barriers, setting new standards for excellence and have paved the way for a more inclusive healthcare system.

This month let’s celebrate their achievements and also commit to building a more equitable future within the NHS. Diversity strengthens healthcare.

Spirituality and Mental Health Bulletin August 2024

Please find attached the latest Spirituality and Mental Health bulletin produced by the Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust library team. If you are unable to access any of the included articles please contact academic.library@lscft.nsh.uk.

Spirituality-and-Mental-Health-Bulletin-August-2024Download