People with lived experience of suicide and self-harm are at the centre of new research efforts.
On World Suicide Prevention Day, September 10, the recently-formed Experience to Experts Advisory Group will meet for the first time to support the work of the Wales National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Research.
The group is made up of 15 people from across Wales who have experienced suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or bereavement by suicide.
Professor Ann John, director of the national centre and vice president of the International Association for Suicide Prevention, said: “Suicide thoughts and behaviours and self-harm affect thousands of people across Wales, leaving lasting impacts on people, families and communities.”
She said: “This centre will be a national hub for research and innovation, embedding the voices of the bereaved and those with lived experience, ensuring that policies, interventions, and support systems are informed by the best possible evidence.”
The group will play a key role in shaping the centre’s research by offering advice and taking part in decision-making at every stage.
Neil Ingham, executive director for Wales at Samaritans, said: “True progress in suicide prevention starts by amplifying the voices of those with lived experience.”
He said: “Their experiences challenge assumptions, deepen our understanding, and push us to create prevention and support services that genuinely reflect the realities people face.”
Originally published by South Wales Argus, written by Jo Barnes, community content editor