If you work with older people and would like to learn how to help prevent suicide, the free Suicide Prevention for Seniors Program can provide the training you need.
Run by Anglicare and funded by the NSW Government, the program consists of a two-pronged approach.
The first is ‘Question, Persuade, Refer’ (QPR) online training. This online program will teach you about the common causes of suicidal behaviour, the warning signs and how to question, persuade and refer someone who may be suicidal. It is general in nature and will equip you with the knowledge you need to move on to the workshop.
The second is a Zoom workshop with others who have completed the QPR online training. It will help contextualise the QPR suicide prevention training for seniors. You will learn facts about seniors’ suicide, tips on how to communicate with seniors who are having thoughts of suicide, and have an opportunity to discuss the course content and put your knowledge into action.
The 3-hour program is suited to aged care workers, retirement living staff, pharmacists, GP practice staff (clinical and non-clinical), geriatricians, medical centre staff and anyone who works closely with older people.
To register for the program, visit www.anglicare.org.au.suicideprevention.