Identifying Good Practice in a Community-based Postvention Support Service: Findings from a Mixed Methods Evaluation study in the UK

Bell, Jo; Kent, Jo

Abstract

Background: This paper reports on a two-year evaluation of a community-based postvention support service in the UK.

Aims: To identify factors that help to improve service delivery (1); to understand the needs of those affected following a suicide and the impact of the support service on their lives (2).

Method: Mixed methods. Using descriptive statistics, we examined utilisation rates over time: sources of referrals; age; gender; relationship to deceased of those referred for support. In-depth interviews with volunteer supporters, service-users, and key stakeholders were undertaken to understand various perspectives on the perceived effectiveness of the service and delivery.

Results: A wide variety of ages and relationships were represented. The majority were female and most were in the deceased’s immediate family. Elements of good practice identified included: effective multi-agency partnership working; the use of real-time surveillance in providing timely referrals; volunteer-led support; pro-active persistent contact; continuous unlimited support.

Conclusion: The evaluation identified new recommendations for service development and delivery which will be of significant value for future community-based postvention services. Consistent with findings from previous research was the need to engage more men and friends. Pro-active strategic use of social media might be one way to engage those under-represented groups.

Citation

Bell, J., & Kent, J. (2023, September). Identifying Good Practice in a Community-based Postvention Support Service: Findings from a Mixed Methods Evaluation study in the UK. Presented at IASP 32nd World Congress, Piran, Slovenia

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Abstract
• Conference Name: IASP 32nd World Congress
• Start Date: Sep 19, 2023
• End Date: Sep 22, 2023
• Acceptance Date: Apr 14, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Sep 19, 2023
• Publication Date: Sep 19, 2023
• Deposit Date: Oct 31, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Jul 25, 2024
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Book Title: International Association for Suicide Prevention: Abstract Book
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4429477
• Publisher URL: https://www.iasp.info/piran2023/