The Public Health Agency (PHA) has launched a public consultation on services for those who have been bereaved by suicide.
Their 12-week consultation runs from today, Monday January 16, until Sunday April 9, with opportunities to get involved at in-person and virtual engagement sessions or through an online survey.
Fiona Teague, Head of Health Improvement at the PHA, said: "Given the impact that suicide has on families and communities, the PHA recognises how important it is to regularly review services that are in place to provide support, and how essential it is to listen to the views of people who use the services, including families, local communities and other organisations to ensure they deliver effective support for those who need it.
Read more: How West Belfast teen's suicide rocked the world of his family
"I encourage all those who want to participate in the consultation to attend any of the five in-person engagement events which will take place across Northern Ireland. There is also the opportunity to take part in two events being hosted online, or by submitting views on an online survey."
In September 2019, the Department of Health published ‘Protect Life 2: A Strategy for Preventing Suicide and Self Harm in Northern Ireland’ – a long-term strategy for reducing suicides and the incidence of self-harm, with actions to be delivered across a range of government departments, agencies, and sectors.
"The 12-week consultation is a valuable way to gather the views of individuals directly affected by suicide, understand their needs and determine how the Protect Life 2 Strategy actions for which the PHA is responsible could be designed and delivered to support those in need," Fiona added.
"We would encourage anyone who has been bereaved by suicide to get involved in the consultation, to have their voice heard, and to help us best support individuals and communities in need of these services in the future."
The PHA says there are a number of ways to get involved - through an engagement event, either online or in person, or by completing an online survey.
The survey will be available for 12 weeks throughout the time of the consultation and is available through here.
Virtual events, held online, and in-person events will last for approximately 1.5 -2 hours. In-person events have been organised on a geographical basis, covering five Health and Social Care Trust areas, with additional evening online sessions open to all areas. Places are limited and booking is essential. Details on these engagement events can be found online.
If you or someone you know is in distress or despair, call Lifeline on 0808 808 8000. You will receive immediate support on the phone and follow up support if necessary. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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