The main aims of RaPSS can be summarised under 3 main headings:

Suicide Prevention

The research aims to identify vulnerability factors in cases of student suicide which can be used to develop preventative strategies for troubled students in higher education

Suicide Responses

The RaPSS study is exploring good practice in the areas of suicide prevention and response in HEIs and identifying what is helpful for those on whom the death impacts.

Dissemination

The project will provide guidance on good practice in the prevention of student suicide and response which can be used by HEI staff, student union support services and relevant health professionals.

Project Objectives

To identify and investigate different perspectives of student suicide through talking to parents, peers, HEI staff and student support services.

To analyse, using data from the interviews, the circumstances preceding a student suicide and the response of the HEI and its staff following the event.

To assess the impact of student suicide and its aftermath on all individuals affected by it in the light of HEI procedures and services.

To identify and promote models of good practice covering strategies for primary prevention, responsive student support services, communication and confidentiality codes in HEIs, and also communication between HEIs and community mental health services.

To raise awareness of both student suicide and sources of support and advice in the student community, HEI sector and amongst health care professionals.