Peer Support after Suicide Gathering
The 2nd Monday of every month (even public holidays) at 7.00 - 8.30pm, people gather alternating months online and in person at the Newham mechanics hall (1292 Rochford Road) to find a space that is specific to the complex grief of suicide. People are free to come and go as they need. The night is conducted by trained peer support members of our community who have also been bereaved by suicide. for details please click here
Background
It was clearly evident, through both consultations that informed the development of MRSPAG and its Action Plan that support for those bereaved by suicide was difficult to access for people in our local area.
The grief experienced after suicide is often unique and complex. We knew that it required a specific response. The Working Party responsible for this Action made immediate contact with Jesuit Social Services who run support after suicide programs from their Richmond office to understand more about the different responses they offered.
At the same time we engaged with the local community, with those bereaved by suicide, and asked them which model of support they thought would be most helpful.
We remained guided by Jesuit Social Services in the establishment of a Peer Model of Support After Suicide and the organisation now auspice this initiative. We remain deeply grateful to Louise Flynn and Anne Giljohann for their support and commitment to bringing this much needed service to Macedon Ranges.
We have fully trained Peer Support Workers (all personally bereaved by suicide) who facilitate monthly opportunities for people who have been bereaved by suicide to come together and access helpful information, build a sense of community and mutual support, in an empathetic and confidential environment that acknowledges, fully, the experience of each individual and their grief journey.
Our Peer Support Workers are:
Gerry Leahy
Jane Cleland
Marcus Ward
Margaret Leahy
Narelle Trewin
Noelene Ward
For more information email us at peersupport@mrspag.com.au