A new service supporting people bereaved by suicide has been launched in Maitland. Social Futures will deliver StandBy Support After Suicide, a nationally funded program which aims to provide ongoing support to individuals and groups navigating the grief and impact of suicide.
People will be able to engage with professionally-trained staff face-to-face or over the phone. An independent study by the Science of Knowing found that within 12 months after the loss, people who received support from StandBy report significantly lower levels of suicidality and loneliness than people who did not receive StandBy support
David Thomson, Social Futures inclusion executive manager, said said the service will provide much-needed support to those touched by suicide in Maitland.
"Suicide affects people in different ways," he said "Every suicide affects a whole community and exacts a high price on mental health and well-being. It is important to remember, if you have been impacted by suicide, you are not alone, there is support at hand."
StandBy general manager Karen Phillips said StandBy has been supporting families, loved ones, witnesses, first responders and communities impacted by suicide for almost two decades.
"We partner with organisations, local communities and well-respected service providers such as Social Futures right across Australia," Ms Phillips said.
"The grief that follows suicide is complex, and from one suicide up to 135 people may be impacted. We're proud to be able to offer support the Hunter region, thanks to this newly formed agreement.
"Those that are bereaved or impacted by suicide are at a greater risk of suicide themselves, and our focus is to provide a range of support to anyone that may be impacted, including emotional and practical support to young people, children, schools and workplaces.
Standby phone support is available 24 hours a day seven days a week on 1300 727 247.
