Supporting the Bereavement Needs of Pacific Communities in New Zealand following a Suicide: A Survey of Service Providers

On average, a suicide death (i.e. family, friends, colleagues, school peers) directly impacts a minimum of 60 people. In the majority of cases, the suicide bereaved lack support, and mental health challenges intensify. As a result, the risk of suicide increases, as does the strain upon family relationships. These issues are often exacerbated by a lack of coping skills, and for some, financial difficulties. What is less known in New Zealand is the availability of culturally-driven and relevant services particularly for Pacific individuals, families and communities bereaved by suicide. The study's aim was to examine the experiences of support workers in service agencies providing resources and support for Pacific peoples bereaved by suicide with a view to informing the development of Pacific-focussed postvention strategies. A mixed methods project was undertaken which included an online survey, focus groups and fono (a commonly used term by some Pacific groups to refer to a 'meeting'); both Pacific communities and service providers who worked with Pacific peoples bereaved by suicide participated in the overall project. This paper presents the results of the Pacific provider online survey component of the project, which drew a total of 70 unique responses. Overall, provider respondents were no more aware of postvention resources available than community respondents. The majority of provider respondents (61.4%) were unaware of group discussions (or fono) as a resource. Over a quarter of provider respondents (25.9%) were dissatisfied with resources available, while almost a quarter (23%) felt the materials had limited or no effectiveness. These findings indicate that suicide postvention support could be improved by training service providers to be more informed of resources and particularly of fono as a culturally appropriate resource, and with much room for improvement in the range and quality of suicide postvention resources. Provider respondents also felt that health professionals, churches, and community leaders were best placed to lead suicide postvention initiatives. This project is the first of its kind, as it specifically addresses suicide postvention services for Pacific communities, and highlights the insights that can be gained by privileging a culturally focussed approach.