Staff from across the South Eastern Trust came together for a powerful workshop which focused on how best to help staff, following the death of a Service User by suicide.
Supported by funding from the Public Health Agency (PHA) from the South Eastern Protect Life Implementation Group, the workshop provided an opportunity to promote the Bereavement Support Guide for Managers and explore how managers and Teams can respond compassionately and appropriately following a bereavement.
Staff from across the Trust area shared learning, experiences and practical approaches to supporting colleagues, at what can be an extremely difficult and distressing time.
South Eastern Trust, Health Development Lead for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Laura McAllister, welcomed the collaboration and commitment of everyone involved in the event.
Laura said, “The death of a Service User by suicide can have a profound emotional impact on staff and Teams. It is important that our managers feel prepared and supported to respond with compassion, while also recognising the individual needs of staff and colleagues.
“This workshop provided a valuable opportunity to come together, share experiences and consider how we can strengthen the support available across our services.”
The workshop was led by Towards Zero Suicide Service Improvement Lead, Karen McMillen, who encouraged participants to take the learning back into their own service areas and consider how it could be embedded into everyday practice.
Karen also asked participants to come together again in six months to reflect on progress and consider the impact of the learning within their services.”
Contributions from Trust Staff Wellbeing Lead, Stephanie Hare, Director of Mental Health, Learning Disability, Psychological Services and Healthcare in Prison, Rachel Gibbs and Bereavement Support Co-ordinator, Donna-Louise Laird, were also warmly received.
Recognising the emotional impact of the subject, the workshop also included a number of wellbeing opportunities, allowing participants time to pause and reflect. Breakout sessions included arts and crafts, journaling, aromatherapy and breathwork, encouraging everyone to consider their own wellbeing as well as the learning from the day.
Laura added, “While the subject matter was understandably challenging, the strong attendance and contribution from staff demonstrated the compassion and commitment across the Trust, to supporting one another through difficult experiences.
“By equipping our Managers and Teams with the right guidance, knowledge and support, we can help ensure that staff are cared for following the death of a Service User and that we continue to learn and strengthen our approach across the Trust.”