Posted on 09 Aug 21 in News Uncategorized

The LTF, in conjunction with The Society of Occupational Medicine (SOM), has today launched a report which provides a framework to support primary care organisations following the death by suicide of a colleague.

Written by Professor Gail Kinman, Birkbeck, University of London and Dr Rebecca Torry, an experienced GP and trustee The report, ‘Responding to the Death of a Colleague in Primary Care: a Postvention Framework’ prepared by Professor Gail Kinman, Birkbeck, University of London and Dr Rebecca Torry, an experienced GP and trustee of The LTF, drew on interviews with people working in GP practices who have personal experiences of a death by suicide within their team alongside a of best practice. The paper promotes a ‘postvention framework’ of useful practical advice designed to support organisations with their immediate response to the event and subsequent recovery. 

Dame Clare Gerada, now President elect of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said of the report:

“This is a timely addition to the support needed for health care staff and organisations when one of their colleagues takes their own life. The document provides an excellent step by step guide as to what to do if this rare but traumatic event happens to a member of staff at work. A vital piece of work and I congratulate the authors.”

Dr Alex Freeman, General Practitioner and Chair of the LTF said:

“Death by suicide is thankfully an uncommon event in General Practice – but what happens when it is one of your own? How do individuals and practices cope, and what support should be available to help them through the difficult time following the death by suicide of a member of the practice team? Building on the experiences of individuals who have been through this devastating scenario, this new report describes the difficulties faced and presents a framework of actions. It highlights a number of challenges for those diverse organisations who commission, represent and support practices, and who should be in a position to assist, for both the short and long term. These challenges must be addressed.”

You can read the LTF and SOM’s joint press release here and download the full report here.