The Way Back Support Service – Sydney is an aftercare service for people who have attempted suicide or experienced a suicidal crisis. It provides non-clinical care and practical support for up to three months following discharge from hospital.

The program uses an assertive model of care where a Support Coordinator is responsible for maintaining contact with the person who has attempted suicide or experienced a suicidal crisis. Support Coordinators provide motivational support to help reduce distress, build connections in the community and engage consumers with other services.

The program is personalised to meet individual needs and can include everything from help to build a personal safety plan to referrals to community-based services such as financial or relationship counselling, or support accessing clinical care during elevated periods of risk. Support can be provided face-to-face or over the phone.

Eligibility and referrals

The service supports people of all ages who attempted suicide and have been discharged from St Vincent’s, Royal Prince Alfred, Prince of Wales, St George, Sutherland, Concord and Canterbury Hospitals.

Referrals can be made through the hospitals’ The Way Back Project Officers.

Contact the service for more information.

Working in partnership

The Way Back Support Service – Sydney is funded by Central and Eastern Sydney PHN and delivered by Neami National in partnership with Sydney LHD, South Eastern Sydney LHD and St Vincent’s Hospital.

The Way Back service model was developed by Beyond Blue. Visit the Beyond Blue website to find out more about the service model.

Crisis support

The Way Back Support Service is not a crisis service. People requiring immediate help should call:

• 000
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
• Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800

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