THE CASE FOR A NATIONAL STRATEGY
What is the Blueprint?In 2009 the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) published its second edition of A National Suicide Prevention Strategy called The Blueprint. This document has been used across Canada to establish provincial suicide prevention frameworks, and recently, the federal Strategy. It has received international recognition by other countries such as the U.S.A, U.K., Australia, New Zealand and many other European and Asian countries. The Blueprint is also a policy agenda, a national task list, and tool for identifying best practices, and a roadmap to and integrated solution. It covers every aspect of our concerns as a nation respecting suicide prevention, research, education, treatment, crisis intervention and bereavement support. As researchers, authors and suicide prevention leaders, we have tried to address issues, needed improvements, and emerging best practices in a practical, achievable and humane manner. As members and directors of CASP, we have offered our leadership and expertise to motivate and assist our governments in fulfilling their own leadership roles. Guiding Principles of the BlueprintTo unite all communities, governments, organizations and resources across Canada with CASP and our stakeholders to work effectively together to prevent death by suicide and to assist, educate and comfort those who have been impacted by suicidal behaviours.
Canada has a wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise to approach suicide as a public health issue and as a preventable problem. Realistic opportunities exist for saving many lives. The Blueprint - National Suicide Prevention Strategy by CASP - Download PDF > An Act respecting a Federal Framework for Suicide PreventionIn December 2012, the Act respecting a Federal Framework for Suicide Prevention became law. This framework is not a national strategy nor does it replace existing strategies or frameworks implemented by provinces, territories, communities or Indigenous organizations. The Framework sets out the Government of Canada’s strategic objectives, guiding principles and commitments in suicide prevention. It focuses on better connections among people, information and resources as well as research and innovation in order to raise awareness, reduce stigma and prevent suicide. As mandated by the Framework, the Government of Canada will report to Canadians by December 2016 and every two years thereafter on its progress and activities. |