Existing Communication Protocol on Informing Next-of-kin of Person who Died by Suicide

NOTICE PAPER NO. 807

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 3 NOVEMBER 2021

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Dr Shahira Abdullah

Nominated MP

Question No. 2125

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what is the Government’s communication protocol on informing the next-of-kin (NOK) of a person who died by suicide; (b) whether the Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Wellbeing will review this protocol in consultation with the bereaved; (c) what is the Government’s framework in providing support to the deceased’s (i) NOK (ii) work colleagues or schoolmates and (iii) friends respectively; and (d) whether the taskforce will consider establishing an inter-agency protocol to support them.

Answer

In all cases where Police have been notified of a death, including when the person is believed to have died by suicide, the Police will inform the deceased’s next-of-kin of the death as soon as reasonably practicable. When attending to death cases, the Police may activate relevant support personnel from Social Service Agencies such as Samaritans of Singapore (SOS) who will then reach out to next-of-kin or loved ones in providing emotional support to the grieving family. SOS may also arrange counselling support for next-of-kin who need and wish to receive additional support. In addition to SOS, individuals can also approach counselling centres and other support groups for support.

For suicide cases involving students in schools and Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs), relevant trained school personnel will identify those who may be emotionally affected, and provide the appropriate support according to their needs.  Teachers and staff will continue to monitor the well-being of students, and provide guidance and support. For students who require additional targeted support, they will be referred to the in-house counsellors and/or mental health professionals in the community and hospitals. Schools and IHLs also receive support by specialist teams from MOE and other agencies to render support to affected students and staff when needed. 

The Interagency Taskforce on Mental Health and Well-being will be conducting a public consultation for the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy that is being developed by the Taskforce, and could look into how the deceased’s next-of-kin may be better supported.