This evaluation report examines Mind Australia's Aftercare Program, an LGBTIQ+ suicide prevention trial delivered in North Western Melbourne from 2019-2021. The program provided peer and clinical support to 52 LGBTIQ+ individuals following suicide attempts or ideation. The evaluation found the program was highly effective, with 100% client satisfaction and significant improvements in mental health outcomes. However, it faced challenges including under-resourcing, staff turnover, and initial lack of cultural safety within the organization.
Key Insights:
100% client satisfaction - All clients felt safe, supported and would recommend the program
86% reduction in suicidal ideation - Significant decrease in thoughts of self-harm among participants
Peer support model highly effective - LGBTIQ+ staff with lived experience created reciprocal, affirming relationships
Program filled critical service gap - Addressed lack of culturally-safe suicide prevention for LGBTIQ+ communities
Under-resourcing hampered implementation - Insufficient staffing and resources delayed full program establishment initially
Cultural safety challenges - Mind Australia lacked LGBTIQ+ inclusive environment, though this improved over time
COVID-19 created mixed impacts - Virtual delivery increased accessibility but reduced personal connection
Strong collaboration achieved - Program successfully integrated with 13 different referral service providers
This document was heavily based on experiential expertise. The evaluation incorporated lived experience through:
This document incorporated significant practice wisdom through:
This document was extensively based on research and evaluation insights: