A campaign to tackle suicide has been launched after it was revealed the city has some the highest rates in the country.

Grassroots Suicide Prevention’s campaign hopes to reduce suicides in Brighton and Hove which are proportionally higher than Manchester, Birmingham and London. 

Research compiled for the campaign found 30% of businesses in the city had been affected by suicide.

The charity hopes to enlist businesses so staff have the skills and training to discuss and prevent suicide.

The scheme will help employees think about suicide, colleagues worried about someone and employers who want to provide the best working environment for their staff.

A pledge has been developed for businesses to sign to show their support for the campaign, with a goal to get 100 businesses signed up by World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10.

Chris Brown, director of Grassroots Suicide Prevention, said: “Brighton and Hove has a very high suicide rate and we want to work with local businesses to change that.

“Businesses are uniquely placed to reach out to their staff and colleagues who might be thinking of suicide. Most people who die by suicide are of working age and many will be in employment.

“By signing up to this pledge companies can be more aware of the needs of colleagues who might be struggling with difficult feelings and be able to offer some support and information about where to go for help. 1 in 20 of us considers suicide in a two week period and businesspeople are no different. Together we can help make our city safer from suicide.”

In 2013 105 people took their own lives in Brighton and Hove - 12.9% of deaths per 100,000 people.

The city has a rate considerably higher than Manchester, Birmingham or.

Martin Harris, managing director of Brighton & Hove Bus Company, said: "The work carried out by Grassroots Suicide Prevention is vital in helping challenge stigma attached to suicide and to help raise awareness of mental health issues that can affect anyone at anytime.

“Grassroots makes a valuable contribution in helping our community and we look to support this work in whichever ways we can."

To find out more about suicide prevention visit www.prevent-suicide.org.uk/