O’Dowd publishes protecting life guidance for schools

Education Minister John O’Dowd has published new guidance on ‘Protecting Life in Schools – Helping Protect Against Suicide’.

Speaking today the Minister said:

“Evidence shows that 26% of 16 year olds here have experienced serious personal, emotional, behavioural or mental health problems in the last year. This figure increases to 43% when the 16 year olds are from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“Schools play an invaluable role in promoting the emotional health and wellbeing of pupils and are already skilled in meeting the pastoral needs of pupils. This new guidance will support schools to do this and provides information on what can be done both as part of a whole school approach and also individual support for pupils.”

Continuing the Minister said:

“The guidance focuses on the many positive, supportive measures that schools can put in place and it is hoped that this advice will help in reduce incidents of self harm and suicide amongst our young people. My Department is determined to play its part in the overall drive against suicide in our society.

“To ensure the most positive outcome for each child, schools should work in close partnership with the many others who impact upon the lives of children. These include but are not exclusive to parents; local communities; voluntary and community sectors; and health and social services.”

In conclusion the Minister highlighted the excellent multi-agency and Departmental work that has resulted in the production of the document. 

He said: 

“Everyone accepts that the long-term reduction of suicide requires action across all sectors. This is an example of good co-operation between Government Departments, statutory agencies and schools. I thank everyone involved in the development of this document for their vital contribution, without which this resource may not have been produced.”

The guidance can be found on the DE website.

Notes to editors: 

1. Suicide prevention within the wider community involves many strategies including reducing access to the means of attempting suicide. For this reason, the advice within this document should be considered alongside wider school policies, particularly those related to pastoral care and health and safety.
2. This resource was commissioned as part of the Department’s ‘iMatter’ Programme and replaces the 1996 Departmental publication ‘Suicide Among Young People – Managing the Issue in Schools’.
3. The Department of Education’s ‘Education Works’ campaign promotes the value of education. This year’s campaign aims to ensure that parents have information on schooling and that they are aware of the steps they can take to ‘Get Involved’ and support their teenager in achieving good outcomes at school. Watch out for the ads on television, radio and outdoor locations. The campaign highlights the vital role families can play in helping children do well at school and improve their life chances. Visit nidirect - Education works for more information or watch the TV ad on the Department’s YouTube channel
4. See photos from the Department of Education flickr collection 
5. Media enquiries to the Department of Education’s Communications Team on Tel: 028 9127 9268. Out of office hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440 and your call will be returned.

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