100 cases of suicide in elderly people in Manchester, UK were examined. Suicides were rare, ranging from 0-7 per year per Health District. Most individuals died at home, 65% were physically ill. At least 60% were clinically depressed. 43% had seen their general practitioner in the previous month but only 15% were receiving psychiatric services. It is argued that specialty services will not reduce suicide rates unless they embark upon public education & collaboration with primary care agencies.