On behalf of our member organisation Switchboard, LGBTIQ+ Health Australia will host the launch of the LGBTIQA+ Suicide Postvention Response Plan. This webinar aims to support the work of LGBTIQ member organisations when responding to the need of people affected by suicide.

LGBTIQ+ Health Australia’s member organisation Switchboard Victoria, conducted evidence-based research with the University of New England to develop a LGBTIQA+ Suicide Postvention Response Plan. The findings offer ways in which locally developed support can be delivered to meet the expressed needs of LGBTIQA+ people affected by suicide death of a LGBTIQ+ person. The report demonstrates how policies, strategies, services and practices can support the bereavement process and promote recovery of a community affected by suicide. The research is funded by the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network and Pride Foundation Australia.

The webinar content will be delivered by Switchboard Victoria:

• (30 min presentation / 30 min discussion and questions)

Speakers:

Presenters Joe Ball and Anna Bernasochi.

Joe Ball is the ever passionate and committed CEO of Switchboard Victoria. Switchboard Victoria is a leading LGBTIQA+ community organisation based in Melbourne on the lands of the Kulin Nation. Switchboard provides peer-driven support services to LGBTIQA+ people, their families and their communities. Joe believes in grass roots solutions to systemic issues and draws upon LGBTIQA+ history and the wisdom of LGBTIQA+ elders to guide their work. In 2020 Joe was honoured as one of the 50 Outstanding LGBTI+ Leaders in Australia. Joe identifies as trans non-binary and uses the pronouns they/them.

Anna Bernasochi is the Suicide Prevention Manager at Switchboard Victoria. Anna is a powerful voice, advocate, researcher, lived experience representative and is recognised for her contributions to the mental health and suicide prevention sectors as an emerging leader. Anna completed the 2019 LGBTIQ+ Leadership Victoria program and in 2020 was awarded one of Out for Australia's 30 Under 30. Anna uses the pronouns she/her.

     Report available here: https://www.switchboard.org.au/suicide-prevention