Monique Faleafa, Denise Kingi-Uluave, Leilani Clarke, Nalei Taufa
Abstract
This exploratory study set out to identify the critical elements to successfully implement community-based suicide prevention initiatives, within Pacific Island communities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Data was gathered from 17 community-based suicide prevention initiatives, led by and for Pacific Island people, over 24 months. The initiatives were funded by a national not-for-profit organisation, Le Va, as part of the Waka Hourua: national Māori and Pasifika suicide prevention programme.
A fixed comparative non-experimental design was applied. The data was thematically analysed alongside a formal expert consensus approach. A hybrid approach to expert consensus was used, combining a Delphi method and a nominal group technique.
Results indicated that seven elements are critical to successful community-based suicide prevention initiatives delivered for Pacific Island communities in Aotearoa New Zealand. The initiatives need to be based on the following elements: 1) culturally relevant, 2) family-centred, 3) clinically safe, 4) take a targeted approach, 5) sustainable, 6) organisationally competent, and 7) have trusted relationships.
Identifying these critical elements for implementing community-based suicide prevention initiatives is significant progress for Pacific Island communities. It informs practice by defining an amalgam of collective efforts of ‘what works’ alongside clear and central tenants for effective implementation of suicide prevention initiatives. It is proposed that these critical elements could provide a potential investment framework to inform the funding and implementation of future suicide prevention policy, research and community initiatives.
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