Factors Affecting the Implementation of a School-Based Suicide Prevention Intervention in the UK: A Qualitative Study of the MAPSS Program

Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people (YP) in the UK, yet few school-based prevention programs have been tested in real-world settings. Guided by international best practice, this study qualitatively explored experiences of implementing a Multi-modal Approach to Preventing Suicide in Schools (MAPSS), to understand workshop facilitators, school staff, and YP’s experiences, perceived value and contextual factors influencing adoption and delivery . Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with YP (N = 6), school staff (N = 10), and workshop facilitators (N = 2). Focus groups were also conducted with YP (N = 25) following participation in the suicide prevention workshop. Thematic framework analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings were explored in relation to barriers and facilitators to implementation across multiple levels: classroom/individual, school, intervention and wider community. Themes included engagement, accessibility and relatability; implementation challenges; risk and responsibility; program design and engagement; and building awareness for early intervention and stigma. MAPSS was perceived as acceptable, safe, beneficial and feasible in school settings, though logistical challenges remain. Insights from multiple stakeholders highlight important considerations for refining and scaling school-based suicide prevention programs in the UK.