By Standby and Lucy Waldron
StandBy has been providing vital support to individuals and communities impacted by suicide for over two decades.
Founded in response to a series of suicides in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, StandBy recognised the profound ripple effect that a single suicide can have on approximately 135 people, extending beyond immediate family members.
StandBy – Support After Suicide is dedicated to supporting individuals and communities across Australia who are impacted by suicide. UnitingCare is currently running the program across a number of Queensland Primary Health Networks, including Darling Downs, West Moreton and the Southern Downs.
The StandBy Darling Downs and West Moreton Coordination Team, Natalie Bagdonas (Coordinator) and Wayne Smith (Senior StandBy Worker), along with a casual support team, work together to support individuals and communities across the Darling Downs and West Moreton region following a death by suicide.
Natalie said they work in a postvention space by helping those who have been bereaved or impacted by suicide, which in turn serves as a form of suicide prevention.
“StandBy focuses on normalizing and validating the experiences of those impacted by suicide, providing them with resources, books, and ongoing contact for up to two years,” she said.
Establishing a presence in the Darling Downs region has been crucial for StandBy, as it fills a significant gap in postvention services. Prior to their arrival, there were no dedicated services in the area.
By offering support and resources to individuals and communities affected by suicide, StandBy plays a vital role in preventing further tragedies and providing much-needed assistance during times of crisis.
Anyone who has been bereaved or impacted by suicide can access the service, regardless of when the person died by suicide or whether they knew the person who passed away.
StandBy can:
• Arrange face-to-face or telephone support.
• Help you understand and respond to your needs, and the needs of your community.
• Provide information and referrals to other local organisations.
• Run tailored workshops for professionals or for the community.
StandBy is here to support you at a time and place that best suits you. Access to their service is free, and they accept referrals from anywhere (as long as they have the consent of the referred person).
Reach out to the team, and they can tailor their support to respond to, and meet, your
needs. You can call 1300 727 247 for support, email standby.ddwm@uccommunity.org.au,
or visit www.standbysupport.com.au for more information.
