LGBTIQ+ people are a priority population in suicide prevention and are at increased risk of experiencing situational distress, suicide ideation and suicide. Distinct risk factors and barriers often prevent members of the LGBTIQA+ community accessing mainstream supports.
Recently, Switchboard Victoria and ACON each launched suicide prevention hubs for these communities.
Switchboard Victoria launched CHARLEE, Australia’s first national LGBTIQA+ suicide prevention hub on 13 October. The acronym of the hub name represents the bringing together of Community, Hope, Action, Resources and Lived Experience Education.
CHARLEE was created by LGBTIQA+ people and takes a ‘no-wrong-door approach’. It seeks to connect LGBTIQA+ people with resources and supports that centre the unique experiences of the community. The hub also includes factsheets on:
- How to talk about LGBTIQA+ Suicide Safely
- LGBTIQA+ Suicide Loss
- Supporting LGBTIQA+ People During Public Discussions About Suicide Loss
NSW LGBTQ health organisation, ACON, launched its digital suicide prevention hub, HERE.org.au on 10 November. HERE is funded by the NSW Ministry of Health under Towards Zero Suicides and has been developed through community consultations and co-design principles.
HERE aims to reduce suicidality and suicide attempts in sexuality and gender diverse communities in NSW. The hub provides a list of services and up-to-date information on their inclusivity and ability to help LGBTQ+ people. HERE also provides resources that explore topics like:
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