Oral Presentation (max 25mins) The National Suicide Prevention Conference 2024

LivingWorks is a world leader in suicide prevention intervention training and programs with more than fours decades delivery. Over 1 million participants have undertaken LivingWorks training programs with more than 267,000 participants and close to 1,000 trainers across Australia alone

Supported by over 70 peer-reviewed studies and government reports, LivingWorks trainings have the most robust evidence base in the suicide prevention training field. Numerous studies have found that LivingWorks training improves trainees’ skills, knowledge, and readiness to intervene. For more information on LivingWorks' extensive evidence base, go to: www.livingworks.com.au/resources/research-and-evaluation

The abstract will explore the recently completed Literature Review of ASIST, SafeTALK and Start by renowned suicidologist Mort Silverman (Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the Medical College of Wisconsin) and highlight the key summary of findings and the benefits from 40 years of experience and learning from a diverse range of participants and population groups. 

It will also explore training quality, safety, and fidelity which are carefully managed by the LivingWorks  training and compliance team. 

The Abstract will also highlight the impact of a recent state-wide pilot of LivingWorks training in response to elevated suicide rates in specific regions and demographics in Victoria, funded by the Victoria Government. The targeted areas identified were Shepparton, Frankston, Ballarat, and Latrobe, along with state-wide funding for LGBTIQA+ communities.

This abstract will discuss the unpublished independent evaluation by Monash University and discuss the methodologies used and the systematic analysis of the data and its impact. This pilot was developed in response to the Royal Commission into Victorias Mental Health System.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Understanding recommendation 27, point 1 of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and the suitability of LivingWorks training. 
2. Program Relevance Recognition: Learners will comprehend the importance of recognizing specific touchpoints for different demographics and how this remains pivotal in the implementation of LivingWorks Training. 
3. Evaluation and Refinement Acumen: Participants will understand the research objectives and outcomes resulting from the statewide pilot. This includes understanding the methodologies involved, interpreting evaluation outcomes from the partnership with Monash University, and using insights to refine future strategies for combating suicide in diverse Australian communities.