Please note that the below information mentions the topic of suicide, please keep yourself safe - if you need to talk to someone you can visit the student support pages and the Employee Wellbeing support pages to access support. Alternatively, visit http://preventsuicideapp.com/
The University of Aberdeen is marking World Suicide Prevention Day by making a commitment to being a ‘Suicide Safer University.’
The Suicide Safe University Commitment aims to minimise the risk and wide-reaching impact of suicide within the University community through prevention and awareness, Intervention and Postvention.
In line with the Scottish Government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy: Creating Hope Together, and Universities UK, Suicide-safer universities guidance, this commitment is underpinned by the University’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy and the Stress Management at Work Policy and Wellbeing strategy and interlinks with other strands of work being carried out at the University including the Emily Test Charter.
Head of Student Support Services and Deputy Director of People, Nick Edwards said: “We have been working on our Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy and the Stress Management at Work Policy and Wellbeing strategy and we are delighted to now be launching our Suicide Safer Commitment.
“We are a large and very diverse community, and we know that suicide can affect anyone at any time in their life, yet the topic is still often considered ‘taboo’ and difficult to talk about. We hope by developing this commitment we can empower and enable our community to take an active role in reducing the risk of suicide, to be able to access the appropriate support when needed and to all play our part in tackling the stigma that is often associated with suicide wherever it exists in society.”
Liam Yule, Suicide Prevention Programme Manager at SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) & Suicide Prevention lead for NE Scotland, said:
“I am delighted to see the University of Aberdeen making this important commitment to their community.
“Changing the narrative surrounding suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue requires systemic change. It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support. It is so encouraging to see the University commitment to doing this.
Karim Hurtig, AUSA Vice President for Welfare Student added: “By working together, we will enhance the inclusive environment and positive culture within our university community, supporting students to maintain positive mental health; manage problems, and support the prevention of mental ill-health.”