Prevention and postvention guidance relating to self-harm and suicide for UK educational and youth organisations: a systematic review of grey literature

Abstract Introduction Self-harm and suicide among young people are major public health concerns and delivering prevention and postvention support is crucial. Educational and youth organisations play a vital role in both prevention and postvention. However, evidence shows a lack of understanding of effective interventions, and limited awareness of the available guidance in this area. We reviewed current self-harm and suicide guidance available to education and youth organisations in the UK that support young people and identified gaps in this provision. Methods A systematic grey literature review was conducted between July and August 2023 using the following methods: internet searches (Google and OpenGrey), advice from experts and reference list checks. To be included, guidance had to focus on supporting children and young people aged 11–18 years and be intended for use in education or youth organisation settings in the UK. Guidance also had to include information on self-harm and/or suicide prevention or postvention and be freely and publicly avai