The Annual Argyll & Bute Choose Life Conference in September addressed the question-
Is there an asset-based approach to suicide prevention?
Speakers included; Andrew Simm – Samaritans Development Project told us that research shows that deprivation is an element affecting those who have completed suicide or had suicidal thoughts. Fact- completed suicide cases down by 18% in Scotland, whilst it is an increasing percentage in the rest of the United Kingdom.
Chris Simm – talked about Looked after Children and reflected upon the fact that research shows that although numbers are small, this group is much more likely to self harm or complete suicide than children living with parent/s.
Michaela Goan & Audrey Forest, using the example of Time Banking showed that we all need help sometimes and at the same time we all have assets that can help others.
Susan Morrison – showed us laughter is a health asset!
From Choose Life, Tracy Preece, Keith Walker and Cameron Stark talked about the challenges of rural living. The NHS National Guide on Suicide Prevention in Rural Areas was used in an exercise to look at human assets in our own communities.