Self-harm hospital admissions are much higher for those living in the most deprived areas of Southampton, figures reveal.

Shocking statistics show that the emergency admission rate for self-harm is 3.49 times higher in these areas, compared to the least deprived parts of the city.

Mental health charity Solent Mind is keen to highlight the mental health inequalities that exist within the city’s communities.

Whether it’s down to socio-economic status, ethnicity, age, or gender, the gap in mental health support continues to widen, the charity said, adding that these leaves the most vulnerable struggling to access vital services.

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Sally Arscott, CEO of Solent Mind, said: “Our service area is home to an exceptionally diverse range of communities, including urban and rural areas, areas of affluence and deprivation, and a broad range of cultures and ethnic groups.

“From this diversity stems a variety of needs, experiences, and barriers to access mental health support.

“Mental health support should be affordable and accessible to everyone, and we want to do all we can to reach as many people as we can.”

This call comes on World Mental Health Day, October 10, as the charity fight to ensure everyone has someone to turn to for advice and support.

With urban areas of the city having greater ethnic diversity than the rest of the county (68.1 per cent identify as White British in Southampton, compared to 87.9 per cent across Hampshire), some communities are harder to reach.

With its #MindTheGap campaign, the charity is highlighting the mental health inequalities present in the area and is asking Hampshire residents to join in with the fight.

Solent Mind provides a wide range of services across Hampshire and you can call them on  023 8202 7810.