Lockdown hit the most deprived parts of communities hardest, a suicide prevention charity has warned.

It has been reported that the number of suicides had not risen nationally during the first lockdown and Chris Wood, development manager at Every Life Matters, said this was likely to be because people had been impacted both positively and negatively by the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Wood said: “Some people have actually fared better during the lockdown but there is a proportion who have struggled much more.

“This is especially the case in areas of deprivation.

“If you are someone who is on the breadline, it could have had a big impact as a lot of people who are on furlough have only received 80 per cent of their wage which may just be too much financially.

“The real test is going to be what will happen after the pandemic as there will be a fallout from Covid-19.

“Suicide rates do tend to rise during times of economic downturn.”

Every Life Matters works to help those struggling with their mental health and wellbeing by running workshops, spreading positive messages through campaigns, and helping those who have been impacted by suicide.

Mr Wood said more people are reaching out to mental health services and has urged those who are struggling to turn to a helpline, a GP, or even a friend or family member.

Cumbria police have been working during the pandemic to try to control issues around mental health.

Cumbria Constabulary’s professional lead for suicide prevention, Superintendent Carl Patrick, has previously told Newsquest Cumbria: “We have seen a continued increase in the number of calls for service in which people are in crisis.

"As a force our priority is to keep people safe.

“The constabulary has been working closely with partner agencies from the Cumbria Suicide Prevention leadership group to help reduce incidents of suicides and self-harm across the county.

“The group are doing this by increasing awareness for example through suicide awareness surgeries on social media, promoting wellbeing for everyone and reducing the stigma associated with self-harm and suicide.

“If you need to speak with someone please contact the Samaritans on 116 123.”