Staying safe and finding hope
August 27, 2026
10 September is World Suicide Prevention Day.
Anglicare’s Universal Aftercare Program (UAC) offers Tasmanians free, one-to-one support to help them stay safe and plan for the future in the days and weeks after a suicidal crisis or suicide attempt.
Making a plan
People are referred to the UAC service by a GP, mental health professional, hospital or emergency service.
Program Manager Brad Smith explains the next step is being connected with a practitioner from Anglicare.
“Our team members are trained professionals who are experienced in working with people who often have complex backgrounds that include trauma. They will check in with the person regularly and help them make a plan for difficult moments,” he said.
Anglicare can also refer the person to other services they may need, such as housing support, mental health and financial counselling. It also provides support to family and other loved ones if this is needed.
Developing resilience: Dani’s* story
When Dani was referred to UAC she was experiencing homelessness and navigating significant challenges with her physical and mental health and wellbeing.
The UAC practitioner worked with Dani to identify her immediate priorities and establish a plan focused on safety, stabilisation and connection to essential supports. These included food and emergency relief, housing and healthcare services.
Dani was supported to learn more about how to regulate her emotions, and set goals.
Despite ongoing housing instability and mental health challenges, by the time Dani exited the program she had developed confidence in her safety plan. She was willing to reach out for help and access assistance, and was actively engaged with healthcare providers and other specialist services.
Hope for the future: Riley’s* story
Riley was referred to (UAC) after experiencing escalating suicidal thoughts, amid severe insomnia, relationship difficulties, financial stress, unemployment, and perceived feelings of failure as a father.
Over three months, UAC provided consistent emotional and practical support, including safety planning, financial and housing assistance, support with a Disability Support Pension application, and reconnection with health professionals. Riley was also encouraged to engage in meaningful activities and social supports.
While suicidal ideation continued to fluctuate, Riley reported feeling safer, more able to manage distress, and more willing to seek help. He developed stronger coping skills, improved confidence as a parent, secured stable accommodation, established shared care arrangements for his daughter, and re-engaged with ongoing clinical supports. At exit, Riley had an active safety plan, established support networks, and reported feeling more hopeful and confident about managing future challenges.
*We have changed our clients’ names in order to protect their privacy.
Further information:
Universal Aftercare is funded by Primary Health Tasmania.
Anglicare operates the statewide Housing Connect service on behalf of Homes Tasmania.
Do you need help urgently?
Call 000 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Suicide Call Back Service (24 hours) – 1300 659 467
Lifeline (24 hours) – 131114
Access Mental Health – 1800 322 388
