Funding Boost for Suicide Prevention
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Australian Government has provided funding aimed at enhancing the collective capacity of local communities to prevent suicide.
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10 September 2012
On World Suicide Prevention Day, the Federal Government has provided funding aimed at enhancing the collective capacity of local communities to prevent suicide.
Minister for Mental Health, Mark Butler said the Wesley LifeForce program helps communities to develop suicide prevention strategies, improve access to appropriate services and support people at risk of suicide and those bereaved by suicide.
“In some cases that means up-skilling community leaders like police, sports coaches and teachers who have regular contact with people that might be at risk of suicide or self-harm.”
“Community members are given the information they need to refer people to appropriate services,” Mr Butler said.
“The program also involves people who have been affected by suicide as part of the educational process.”
Mr Butler said the $4.8 million in new funding will enable Wesley Lifeforce to double the size of its existing program and establish 21 new community networks.
“By supporting communities to build their suicide prevention and management capacity, we can reach those people who may otherwise fall through the cracks and not get the help they need.”
“Everyone can play an important role in preventing suicide by taking the time to check on someone you know who is going through a difficult time. A simple question or conversation could help save a life.”
Mr Butler said he recognised that suicide is a huge and complex issue, but early intervention and prevention is key.
“Suicide prevention takes many forms, including health promotion, early intervention, crisis support and ongoing intervention for people at risk of suicide, as well as supporting families and communities affected by suicide.”
The funding is provided under the Taking Action to Tackle Suicide package and existing National Suicide Prevention Program which together deliver $292.8 million funding (from 2011-2016) for practical suicide prevention activity.
Wesley LifeForce will hold its annual Suicide Memorial Day at the Sydney Opera House this Thursday to draw attention to the tragedy of suicide and allow those bereaved by suicide to come together in a spirit of comfort and hope.
For more information, contact the Minister’s Office on 02 6277 7280
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