The University of Westminster has been awarded £1.1 million for a research project focused on evaluating suicide prevention surveillance technologies. Led by Dr Jay-Marie Mackenzie in Psychology and Professor Lisa Marzano (Middlesex University), this project aims to explore the potential of using technological interventions—such as ‘smart’ surveillance systems —in detecting and preventing suicide attempts, particularly in high-risk public locations.
Due to the rapid growth in such technologies, little is known about how effective these types of intervention actually are, as well as their potential for any unintended consequences. The project seeks to develop a more effective understanding of how surveillance technologies can help in real-time intervention, providing early warnings that could prompt timely responses from authorities or trained personnel.
The research is being carried out in collaboration with several partners, including public health organizations, and will also examine ethical considerations surrounding surveillance and data privacy. Additionally, the project aims to ensure that interventions respect individual rights while offering effective, compassionate, and data-driven solutions to a growing public health issue. The project underscores the university's commitment to applying cutting-edge technologies for social good, specifically in addressing suicide prevention and mental health concerns.
Funding body
This project is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) PHR programme NIHR151521. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.
Investigators
- Dr Jay-Marie Mackenzie (Chief Investigator), University of Westminster
- Professor Lisa Marzano (Co-Principal Investigator), Middlesex University
- Dr Ian Marsh (Co-Investigator), Canterbury Christchurch University
- Dr Laura (Research Fellow), Middlesex University
- Dr Beth Cliffe (Research Fellow) University of Westminster
- Dr Philip Worrall (Co-Investigator), University of Westminster
- Professor Peter Craig (Co-Investigator), University of Glasgow
- Anthony Purvis (Research Assistant), University of Glasgow
- Dr Manuela Diedda (Co-Investigator), University of Glasgow
- Dr Giorgio Ciminata (Research Fellow), University of Glasgow
- Elizabeth Pettersen (Co-Investigator), Samaritans
- Alex Dark (Co-Investigator), Encounter
- Robin Pharoah (Co-Investigator), Encounter
This project has been designed and developed by several members of The National Suicide Prevention Alliance Lived Experience Influencer Group.