Impact of LIFE training on educational staff’s suicide prevention skills and confidence levels

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to assess the impact of LIFE training on educational staff’s confidence in communication skills that can support students in suicidal distress. Design/methodology/approach LIFE training is a school-based suicide prevention course designed to develop educational staff’s skills in suicide prevention. Pre-and post-questionnaires were administered to assess participant’s confidence in five domains before and after course delivery. Data was analysed using unpaired T-test. Findings Results showed a statistically significant improvement in overall confidence level post-course, as well as across three of the four specific domains. These domains included areas of identifying and asking about suicide, supporting resilience through value-guided actions, and safety planning. Confidence in listening with empathy remained high post-course, but this result did not reach statistical significance. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the impact of LIFE training as a suicide prevention course, providing credibility for its wider implementation. It also demonstrates that communication skills can be successfully transferred, even to non-healthcare staff with minimal experience.