Postvention: A Community-based Family Support Initiative and Model of Responding to Tragic Events, Including Suicide

Abstract

This paper provides an account of the design, development and implementation of a postvention model of responding to the needs of families within a community following the aftermath of a tragic event, including suicide. This model was developed for a specific disadvantaged urban community. The paper includes the context of the need for such an undertaking and discussion on the family support theories that underpin its development. A retrospective critique of the initiative and subsequent model is provided, including the inherent strengths and limitations and a description of further family support practice developments.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Susan Forde

Susan Forde is a Children Act Services Manager and Carmel Devaney is Springboard Project Leader