The following is a summary of essential elements for successful local action on suicide prevention, compiled following a review of Australia-wide approaches to suicide prevention by the NSW Mental Health Commission.
1. Establish a local, community-driven suicide prevention network:
- build on existing models’ strengths and learnings
- formally link with local councils/mayors wherever possible
- engage potential “passionate leaders” (e.g. local councillors, members of parliament, chambers of commerce)
2. Governance:
- partner with local Councils (which already have a mandate for healthy communities and building resilience)
- align with Councils’ strategic plans or social plans
- options - networks could be committees of local council, independent Incorporation, or auspiced by a non-government organisation
3. Develop an annual suicide prevention action plan
4. Role of suicide prevention network:
- suicide awareness and prevention training (e.g. ASIST, safeTALK)
- development of annual action plans and initiatives
- community mobilisation, crisis intervention, postvention
5. Capitalise on state-wide campaigns at a local level (e.g. R U OK Day, White Ribbon and other campaigns)
6. Utilise state-wide suicide prevention networks for knowledge exchange and translating research and evidence into local practice
7. Host/attend an annual showcase conference to share and duplicate good practice across suicide prevention networks
Essential elements for local action on suicide prevention.PDF