Health Minister Jackie Doyle-Price (pictured) will lead the national effort

Theresa May has appointed the world’s first Minister for Suicide Prevention in a bid to cut the number of people taking their own lives.

Health Minister Jackie Doyle-Price will lead the national effort and try to end the stigma which stops people from seeking help, the Prime Minister said.

Around 4,500 people take their lives every year in England and suicide remains the leading cause of death among men under the age of 45.

Mrs Doyle-Price, whose title is now Minister for Mental Health, Inequalities and Suicide Prevention, said: ‘I understand how tragic, devastating and long-lasting the effect of suicide can be on families and communities.

‘In my time as health minister I have met many people who have been bereaved by suicide and their stories of pain and loss will stay with me for a long time.

‘It’s these people who need to be at the heart of what we do and I welcome this opportunity to work closely with them, as well as experts, to oversee a cross-Government suicide prevention plan, making their sure their views are always heard.’

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: ‘We’re already making progress when it comes to suicide prevention, the suicide rate is at its lowest for seven years.

‘But we need to do more to challenge the stigma that people with mental ill-health face and make sure they feel they can reach out for help.

The Prime Minister also announced funding for the Samaritans helpline

‘I am delighted we are appointing Jackie Doyle-Price as our dedicated Minister for Suicide Prevention, and I know she will make a real difference.

‘Every suicide is a preventable death and we are determined to do everything we can to tackle the tragedy of suicide.’

Mrs Doyle-Price, 49, was elected MP for Thurrock in Essex in 2010 and given her first government job following the 2017 election, as junior health minister.

Originally from Sheffield, she sparked a row last year when she said many elderly people are ‘sitting in homes that really are too big for their needs’ - and should not expect to pass them on to their children.

She had one of the smallest majorities in Parliament - just 92 votes - when elected in 2010, but has since increased the margin to 351.