FAMILIES and friends who have lost a loved one to suicide will now have access to a range of useful supports thanks to the NSW Government’s $4.5 million boost to post-suicide services across the State.
Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said that post-suicide support was critical to support loved ones as well as the wider community.
“We know that around 135 people can be impacted by a single suicide,” Mrs Taylor said.
“For friends and family, the death of a loved one by suicide is not only heartbreaking and shocking, it can also create new challenges as well as making day-to-day tasks incredibly difficult.
“We want to be there for people in these painful weeks and months in ways that can really help, from providing counselling to helping them access financial assistance and guiding them through the coronial process.”
StandBy Support After Suicide will provide the service in partnership with Jesuit Social Services, Roses in the Ocean and University of New England. StandBy will focus on reaching bereaved families and friends, as well as first responders and witnesses to suicide.
To find out more or to access these services, please call 1300 727 247 at any time or visit standbysupport.com.au.
For anyone who is struggling, you can call the below helplines for support and advice:
Please call 000 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.
Lifeline 13 11 14
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511