Experts join forces to improve research on suicide prevention and self-harm in Wales

Cardiff University academics are teaming up with experts across Wales to drive research into suicide prevention and self-harm.

The National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Research marks a significant milestone in addressing one of the nation’s most pressing public health challenges.

Led by Swansea University in collaboration with Cardiff University, the University of South Wales (USW), and Samaritans, the National Centre will foster  research excellence and pioneer change in policy and practice in suicide prevention and self-harm.

Recognising the many and complex factors contributing to suicide prevention and self-harm, the centre will bring together government, public sector agencies, third-sector organisations, researchers, people with lived experience, and the public – to support those at risk and to save lives.

Funded by Health and Care Research Wales, the Centre is part of a broader £49m investment in health and social care research, with more than £2m dedicated to suicide prevention and self-harm efforts in Wales.

Professor Rhiannon Evans, Deputy Director at the Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), which is based at Cardiff University, said: “The Centre offers an incredible opportunity for us to bring together a range of partners to develop new insights and innovative solutions.  This will hopefully move us forward in addressing such an important public health concern in Wales.”

Professor Jonathan Scourfield, from the Centre for Adult Social Care at Cardiff University, who will be the Deputy Director of the National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-Harm Research said: “We are looking forward to contributing our research on the social context of suicide and self-harm to this exciting new interdisciplinary centre.”

Neil Ingham, Samaritans Executive Director for Wales said: “True progress in suicide prevention starts by amplifying the voices of those with lived experience. Their experiences challenge assumptions, deepen our understanding, and push us to create prevention and support services that genuinely reflect the realities people face. This Centre is an opportunity to ensure the voice of those with lived experience guides every step we take.”