Lifeline Hunter launches AfterCare program to provide post-suicide attempt support

Lifeline Hunter launches AfterCare program to provide post-suicide attempt support

Trigger warning: please note that this news piece contains content relating to depression and suicide.

Improving the care received by people after a suicide attempt is key to reducing suicide attempts and suicide deaths, as a suicide attempt is one of the most significant risk factors for further suicidal behaviour.

Lifeline Hunter’s new service, AfterCare, co-designed with local communities, has been developed to provide quality, professional support to individuals post-suicide attempt.

AfterCare offers individuals one-on-one support to increase access and engagement with care, help manage suicidal thoughts, and prevent repetition of suicidal behaviour or self-harm.

Lifeline Direct’s Regional General Manager, Julie Wicks, said that AfterCare program will provide a tailored and more one-on-one support experience to people post-suicide attempt.

“The AfterCare service model is about offering people post-suicide attempt the opportunity to explore optional pathways through connection with an AfterCare Coordinator and group support,” Julie  said.

“Participants also receive counselling sessions and access to a dedicated after-hours phone crisis service.”

The AfterCare service is currently being rolled out to support the Hunter, New England, and Manning regions.

The service will be managed by recently appointed AfterCare Manager, Leisha Antunovich, with coordinators based in Singleton, Tamworth, and Forster.

“Thanks to our key stakeholders and the funding from the Hunter New England and Central Coast, Primary Health Network we hope to create a lasting impact in the lives of those who’ve attempted suicide,” she said.

“Importantly, because of this funding, there is no cost to people who use the service.”

For post-suicide attempt support, contact Lifeline on 1300 152 854 or visit aftercare.lifelinedirect.org.au

IMAGES | Regional General Manager HNECC, Lifeline Direct – Julie Wicks.

Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter

Lifeline was founded by the Reverend Alan Walker at Methodist Central Mission in Sydney in 1963. Since then, Lifeline services have been established around Australia and in many parts of the world.

Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter began in 1966 when Reverend John Chegwidden was awakened by a distressed telephone call from a man wanting to know if there was a Lifeline service operating in the region.

Over the years, Lifeline Newcastle & Hunter has expanded its operations from the traditional telephone crisis support service to include a range of services to relieve the stress and pain of the people of Newcastle & Hunter.

Trending Articles

Advertise with us

Affordable and engaging advertising to a business community

Submit an article

Tell your story to the Hunter business community

Does your business need a little help with its marketing?

Marketing strategies

This website uses cookies
We use cookies to personalise content and ads, to provide social media features and to analyse our traffic. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners who may combine it with other information that you’ve provided to them or that they’ve collected from your use of their services.