LJMU experts back suicide project in Parliament

A suicide prevention charity backed by LJMU experts has unveiled important research in Parliament aimed at reshaping how the UK responds to suicidal crisis.

The Martin Gallier Project, based in Wirral, has delivered more than 48,000 life-saving interventions to nearly 10,000 people.

The project model was built on a non-clinical model for suicide prevention - with no criteria, no waiting lists and no barriers.

The charity has today (4 September) released a report, in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University, called 'Improving Suicide Crisis Support: A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of The Martin Gallier Project in partnership with the NHS'.

It has data from clients, alongside interviews with carers, staff, and referrers - highlighting the effectiveness of the project's approach.

It's hoped sharing this report with MPs and partners will help to adopt this approach across the country.

Jessica Gallier-Booth, founder & CEO of The Martin Gallier Project, said: "My hope is that this report not only evidences our impact but also serves as a blueprint for what suicide prevention can, and should, look like across the country.

"It's a call to action for policymakers, funders, and communities to reimagine how we care for those in crisis.

Professor Pooja Saini of Liverpool John Moores University said: "The Martin Gallier Project represents an innovative, life-saving model for suicide prevention that complements NHS services and fills vital systemic gaps.

"This evaluation strongly supports its continuation, expansion, and sustained investment, highlighting its model as a replicable best practice framework for suicide interventions, with proven impact and suitability for wider adoption at regional and national levels."

Professor Saini, a clinical psychologist and the LJMU Self-Harm and Suicide Group work with a range of public, private and charitable organisations including James' Place, Alfie's Squad and Three Dads Walking to improve primary care for people at risk of suicide. 

Image: Jessica's father Martin took his own life eight years ago.