Mental Health Minister Sarah Murphy has pledged to ensure compassionate support services are available for all those affected by suicide and bereavement when they need it.
To mark World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10), the Welsh Government has launched a national advice service aimed at supporting all those affected by suicide, and new guidance for agencies and organisations.
Both the service and the guidance have been influenced by the needs and experiences of people living with bereavement by suicide in Wales.
It comes as the latest ONS data showed an increase in the number of deaths by suicides in Wales in 2023.
The new specialist National Advisory and Liaison Service will respond to all those exposed, affected, or bereaved by suicide and sudden unexplained deaths that could be a possible suicide.
It will ensure anyone in Wales who has been affected can receive immediate sensitive and compassionate support, including regular contact from a dedicated liaison officer for as long as needed, and support to access wider services.
The free and confidential support service is available to individuals and families and can be provided via phone, in person or by video call.
The Jac Lewis Foundation, a Welsh charity that has been providing a local service, has been commissioned by the Welsh Government to host the national service.
The new guidance is aimed at a range of “touch point” agencies and organisations, which consistently feature in people’s bereavement journeys following a sudden or unexplained death, including possible suicide.
These include first responders, mortuary and coroners’ offices, as well as GPs and primary care teams, employers and workplaces.
This guidance has been produced by engaging with individuals and agencies who work in the sector.
It is designed to ensure a more compassionate response, offering both practical and emotional support, at the different stages following a bereavement.
To read the Welsh Government's statement in its entirety, click on the following link:: “We are committed to providing compassionate support for all those affected by suicide when they need it,” vows Minister | GOV.WALES
Whether you are self-employed or a business owner, we should all take steps to take care of our mental health and those of our employees: Wellbeing and Mental Health | Business Wales (gov.wales)