ATTUNE Study

Suicide is a leading cause of death among young people in the UK, with half having a history of self-harm. Many young people experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts are reluctant to seek help from health and social care services. Research shows that the voluntary, community, and social enterprises (VCSE) sector plays a significant role in supporting these young people (hereafter referred to as “voluntary organisations”). However, we know very little about how, why, and when young people choose to seek help from voluntary organisations, or how these organisations respond to their needs and interface with the health and social care sector. The ATTUNE project will explore young people’s experiences in seeking and accessing support from voluntary organisations for self-harm and suicidal thoughts or behaviour. Shaped by the insights of young people with lived experience and in collaboration with voluntary and statutory services, the project aims to develop best practice recommendations for effective collaborative care in youth suicide prevention. The research will take place in the West Midlands and South West Peninsula, two regions of significant geographic, ethnic, and socioeconomic diversity in England. A youth advisory group will help shape the research programme, interpret findings, and communicate key messages.