Teachers receive training to help suicidal students

SECONDARY school teachers have been given lessons on how to identify and help students who may be suicidal.

The South Eastern Health Board has developed a 14-hour education programme for school staff in suicide awareness. The first six-week programme has ended and more courses are being planned at the Kilkenny Education Centre.

"This training was in response to a recommendation by the Task Force Report on Suicide which says that teachers at all levels be supported in respect of the psychological and social dimension of their work," according to a health board spokesperson.