The first Living Links group was set up in Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary in May 2002, when a small group of local people got together in direct response to a suicide in the community. The event was tragic and cataclysmic for the people and there was a huge sense of inadequacy on the ground as to how to provide appropriate community support.
In an effort to provide support to the suicide bereaved, personal contact was made with relatives and friends of the deceased, enquiring from them what their immediate requirements were following the suicide. Contacts were made with others who had been bereaved by suicide varying, in terms of time, from weeks to months to years following the death.
It was found that within the first twelve to fourteen months following the suicide, most people were basically in a state of confusion and experiencing multiple emotions such as anger, guilt, denial and even suicidal thoughts.
Taking all these various issues into account it was decided to start a suicide outreach support programme, one which would meet the requirements of the bereaved by suicide. With this in mind a training programme specifically designed towards suicide support was developed. This was how and why Living Links was formed.
Training is conducted over a four day period and volunteers are then available to offer confidential, practical support and information to families/persons that have been affected by suicide. At the request of the family/person, the volunteer can call to the home or meet at a location appointed by the family/person.
Tipperary Living Links volunteers attend at all inquests into suicide deaths to offer support to families/persons that are affected or attending as witnesses.
The Living Links listening/support service is free of charge and available to any person in the community including emergency personnel, gardaí and clergy etc., who have in any way been affected by suicide.
On the second Thursday of each month a facilitated Support Group Meeting is held at our office, Unit 9, Business Innovation Centre, Stafford St., Nenagh, Co Tipperary, commencing at 8.00pm.
For support or further information phone 087 9693021, or email tipperarylivinglinks@gmail.com