Trigger warning: This article does explore some upsetting themes, including suicide.
A man has launched a petition calling on the UK government to change their bridge safety standards as a way to try and reduce the number of people thinking about committing suicide.
Daniel Hunt launched the petition on Change.org, which currently has more than 250 verified signatures.
The campaign comes from a personal place for Daniel, who shared that he was on the brink of jumping from a bridge before someone intervened.
He wrote on the petition's page: "I know firsthand the terror of seeing no other option but to take that fateful leap from a bridge. I was fortunate. Someone pulled me back, and I received the help I desperately needed.
It’s OK to ask for help. You don’t have to carry it all alone.
— Samaritans (@samaritans) April 9, 2025
116 123 📱
"I can't help but think about those who aren't as lucky. This issue touches me deeply, and it's time to help others too."
Petition calls for change to safety standards on motorway bridges and rail tracks
According to statistics from the House of Commons Library, there were 7,055 deaths registered in the UK where the cause was recorded as suicide in 2023.
Daniel is hoping his petition can make some changes so that this figure is reduced further.
He explained: "Every year, more than a thousand people die by suicide in the UK, and many of these deaths involve jumps from tall structures, like bridges over motorways and rail tracks.
"Unfortunately, a significant number of bridges are not high enough to deter potential jumpers. It's not just about the height - safety barriers can be a determining factor, too."
Daniel is asking for action from the UK government to implement stricter safety measures concerning bridge heights.
A suicide safety plan helps you to stay safe for now from acting on thoughts of suicide when things become overwhelming.
— PAPYRUS (@PAPYRUS_Charity) April 9, 2025
Our suicide safety plan website is free to download on our website, so you can create your own plan. 💜https://t.co/2K0VoE2sL2 pic.twitter.com/1znQZVo7es
This is so that potential jumpers could be deterred from the thought of taking their own life and shield people from seeing such acts happen.
He continued: "We request that the UK government impose strict safety standards for bridge heights and include safety barriers in the construction of all motorway and rail track bridges.
"Not only will this help in deterring potential jumpers, but it would also shield passersby and drivers from the traumatic experience of witnessing such acts.
"We believe that simple infrastructural changes can significantly reduce suicide numbers. We urge everyone to lend their voice to this cause.
"It's more than just changing a few building standards – it's about saving lives. Please, sign this petition in support of safer bridges."
Feeling suicidal can be scary and confusing. But you're not alone. Many people think about suicide at some point in their lifetime.
— Mind (@MindCharity) September 10, 2018
Alicia, Lee, Graham and Miriam talk about what it's like and how they've learned to manage. > https://t.co/qobt4PJKkt #WSPD pic.twitter.com/OpHsZpyoNr
The full petition can be seen on the Change.org UK website here.
If you need to talk to someone, there are several UK organisations who have helplines:
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): 0800 58 58 58
- Maytree Suicide Respite Centre: 020 7263 7070
- Mind: 0300 102 1234
- Papyrus: 0800 068 41 41 and 88247 (text)
- Samaritans: 116 123 (freephone)
- Shout: 85258 (text SHOUT)
These organisations can offer support in times of crisis and talk you through the next steps.
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