Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is now inviting tender submissions for the provision of appropriately skilled service providers to undertake a review and further development of the draft Cairns Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan (SPCAP).

This tender has been developed to deliver a SPCAP combining priorities and strategies for future resourcing which are evidence-informed and endorsed by key stakeholders in the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS) region.

The objectives of the SPCAP project are to:

• facilitate and promote stakeholder engagement processes and structures with community and cross sector stakeholders for codesign of plan strategies
• evolve these consultation and collaborative networks to support the establishment of a suicide prevention coordination network/steering committee
• utilise these consultation mechanisms to review and further develop the current draft Cairns SPCAP to align with key target priorities within the Black Dog Institute (BDI) Lifespan Model and recent emerging initiatives and resources in the Cairns area
• work with consultants (JCU) engaged by NQPHN to provide research support for suicide prevention planning to incorporate findings, evidenced practice, and evaluation frameworks within the revised plan.

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer John Gregg said the completed Cairns SPCAP will provide a vital resource to the region to support integrated delivery of suicide prevention activities in the community, linking the continuum of care.

“A key priority for PHNs is to encourage and promote a regional approach to suicide prevention including community-based activities, and liaison with local Hospital and Health Services.

“Involvement in the planning process for addressing rates of suicide in the region is intended to be driven by appropriate community and stakeholder engagement.

“The capacity of robust clinical and community input through the consultation and plan development process will ensure effective suicide prevention measures are implemented to help residents to live happier, healthier, longer lives.

“NQPHN look forward to working in collaboration with providers to support integrated delivery of suicide prevention activities so individuals receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”

NQPHN is encouraging tender applications from CHHHS region communities including Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Douglas Shire, Tablelands, and Western tablelands.

Tender submissions are open until Friday 9 August 2019.

Applicants interested in applying for the tender should visit NQPHN’s online procurement portal at www.nqphn.com.au/commissioning