The University of Manchester and the Support after Suicide Partnership (SASP) have launched a national suicide bereavement survey to identify the experiences of those bereaved by suicide in the UK.

The study purports to be the first of its kind and aims to measure the support currently available for those affected by suicide in the UK.

Over 6,000 people died by suicide in the UK in 2015. It is estimated between 6-60 people are profoundly affected by each death, yet the impact on those who are bereaved by suicide is poorly understood, despite our awareness that many of those bereaved are also significantly at risk of dying by suicide.

At the official launch last night, preliminary data from the pilot study was presented to an audience consisting of SASP members, partners from the University of Manchester ambassadors, police and the prison service.

“Suicide has a devastating and lasting impact on people's lives," said Hamish Elvidge, the Chair of SASP. 

"This research will help to support our compelling case that everyone impacted by suicide should be proactively offered appropriate support."

"We are delighted to be collaborating with the University of Manchester on this vital, life changing research.”

Survey link

The anonymous survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and can be accessed via a link on the SASP website.

The findings will help to inform and guide policy, practice and the development of future services for those bereaved by suicide.

The SASP is the coordinating hub for a UK-wide network of organisations that support people who have been bereaved or affected by suicide. 

The Samaritans can be contacted 24 hours a day on 116 123.