A new suicide prevention trial is now underway in schools around England, led by Liverpool John Moores University, with targeted support to be provided to students across Merseyside and Cheshire who demonstrate suicidal tendencies.
Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, the trial – which started on February 2nd – will be running until January 2026, specifically aimed at pupils aged 14 or 15 and who are in Year 10.
The trial involves students attending a workshop during school hours led by experienced professionals from Grassroots Suicide Prevention, teaching them to recognise and respond to warning signs in both themselves and their peers.
A non-compulsory survey can also be completed, consisting of five questions relating to suicidality. If anyone scores highly on the survey, they are then referred to their school for additional support.
And targeted online intervention will be provided by Reframe IT-UK, an eight-week cognitive behavioural therapy programme that can be completed during school hours alongside a properly trained member of staff.
Dr Pooja Saini, reader in suicide and self-harm at the university’s School of Psychology, said: “Suicide rates among young people are rising, and evidence-based prevention programmes are urgently needed. Schools are potentially the ideal place to engage with the issue.”
Co-lead on the project Dr Emma Ashworth made further comments, saying that based on earlier trials, it’s expected that this combination of interventions will drive down the risk of suicide in young people while improving help-seeking behaviours for those who are feeling suicidal.
Are you considering suicide prevention training? Suicide Bereavement UK delivers evidence-based theory driven courses informed by research and provided by experts in their field.
For further information, contact:
Paul Higham
Suicide Bereavement UK
Tel: 01706 827359
Mobile: 07850 710555
Email: paul.higham@suicidebereavementuk.com