Public inquests for suicides deepen the sense of grief and despair that families feel. Such inquests must be made private so that families can grieve in peace and remember their loved one without public intrusion or public scrutiny.

Inquests in to suicides are open to the public meaning anyone can attend the inquest hearing of a person who has taken their own life. This is not right. Victims of suicide are not criminals and it is not in the public interest to share suicide details.

Extremely sensitive and harrowing details are discussed at inquest hearings which is distressing enough for the families of victims of suicide. But having the details of how their loved ones died made public, and with complete strangers able to attend such a raw and personal event, only compounds the pain and grief. There is also the added stress and anxiety that journalists will be present and therefore report on the suicide.

The bereaved families and victims of suicide deserve privacy.

Please sign and show your support for making suicide inquests private.