Peer Support Art Group for Suicide Attempt Survivors
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The Pitch
Problem statement
This initiative is grounded in understanding the struggles experienced by suicide attempt survivors. Research highlights their emotional turmoil, including guilt, shame, isolation, and stigma (Pitman et al., 2016; Brown et al., 2020). We ran a focus group with 12 local suicide attempt survivors, they highlighted: feeling stigmatised and not fitting in; struggling accessing appropriate support and safe spaces to discuss their experiences; stigma made it very difficult to talk; art is perfect to express themselves and a tool to communicate with.
Solution
The goal of the 'Surviving Suicide: Suicide Attempt Survivors Peer Support Art Group' is to provide a therapeutic space in Salford for those who have survived suicide attempts or experience suicidal thoughts. Launched in 2018, the project addresses the need for support, emotional healing, and community among survivors. Objectives include: - Healing and Peer Support: Creating an empathetic environment for survivors to connect and promote recovery (Hart et al., 2015). - Creative Expression: Using art therapy to enhance emotional well-being and coping skills (Kaimal et al., 2016). - Reducing Stigma: Facilitating open dialogue to diminish the stigma around suicide (Cvinar, 2005).
Why are we best placed to deliver?
Our organisation is uniquely qualified to ensure the success of the 'Surviving Suicide' project due to our extensive experience, specialised skills, and proven track record in mental health support and therapeutic interventions. Key factors include: Established History: Deep expertise in providing comprehensive mental health services in Salford. Successful Track Record: Since 1993, impactful support for hundreds, with significant participant well-being improvements. Skilled Facilitators: Trained art therapists and mental health professionals ensure a safe, empathetic environment. Empirical Support: Methods backed by research on peer support and art therapy efficacy (Hart et al., 2015)
Focus Areas
Delivery plan
Budget breakdown
| Artist/Mental Health Facilitator 2 hrs/wk @£25 p/hr x 48 Sessions | £2,400 |
| Room Hire 2 hrs week @£20 per hr x 48 Sessions | £1,920 |
| Creative Arts Material Supplies | £251 |
| Marketing & Promotion | £30 |
| Project Manager 4 hrs/wk @24.08 per hr x 52 weeks | £5,009 |
| Administration/Office Costs £7.50 per week x 52 weeks | £390 |
Beneficiaries
40 people
Who will benefit
Expected impact
By the end of the project, participants will report: Improved mental health &well-being Better confidence & self-esteem Being more socially active and less isolated Reduced risk of reattempted suicides with added coping & crisis strategies The Surviving Suicide aims to significantly reduce the risk of reattempted suicides among participants, addressing the increased risk they face. The peer support model & creative arts therapy are crucial in mitigating this risk. In 2021-22, 22 participants reported a 149% increase in mental health and well-being, 100% enhanced confidence and self-esteem, increased social activity, reduced isolation, and stronger community connections. The project also seeks to reduce the isolation and stigma faced by survivors, which can deter them from seeking help and worsen distress. Our experience in successful mental health interventions and our passionate team will provide crucial support and recovery opportunities for this vulnerable group.
Track record
‘START’ is a charity that has been delivering mental health recovery and prevention services in Salford for almost 30 years. We use creativity, connection and recovery interventions to help improve people's lives. Back in 2018, as part of our 25th anniversary ‘Reach Out; Start to End Suicide’ was launched. It is a multi-award winning campaign, its dedicated to the prevention of suicide. Our campaign is based on the foundation/belief that suicide is preventable and everyone has a role to play in preventing suicide. We aim for a community that makes it’s the norm and acceptable to feel free to discuss their feelings and told that they matter. Through raising public awareness, education and equipping people with the confidence to have conversations, to support those at risk of suicide, we know we can save lives being lost and contribute to reducing suicides. Our Impact Reports can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/2ebwjn9z