E-learning suicide prevention training for prison staff in Belgian detention centers
Official title: Evaluation of E-learning on Suicide Prevention for Professionals in a Detention Context
Run by University Ghent · NCT07080736 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test whether an online gatekeeper training helps prison staff in Belgium feel more confident and knowledgeable about preventing suicide among people in detention.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1300 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Ghent Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ghent) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 26, 2025 |
| Main results expected | March 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 23, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07080736 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal participants are Dutch-speaking prison staff aged 18 or older who work in the participating penitentiary institutions (Ypres, Merksplas, Bruges, Mechelen) and have internet access.
✕Probably not a fit
Staff who do not work in the participating institutions, who cannot access the internet, or who do not speak Dutch will not be eligible and therefore will not receive benefit from this program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Prison staff at participating Belgian penitentiary institutions will complete an e-learning gatekeeper training and their responses will be measured before and after the course. Outcomes include changes in knowledge, attitudes, perceptions about suicide prevention, self-efficacy for responding to suicidal behavior, and reported applicability in daily practice. Participation is limited to Dutch-speaking employees with internet access at the listed sites. Data will be collected and analyzed to determine whether the training produces measurable improvements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If effective, this training could help staff better recognize and respond to suicidal behavior, potentially reducing suicide risk among people in detention.
How similar studies have gone: Gatekeeper and e-learning programs have improved knowledge and self-efficacy in other settings, but evidence specifically within prison environments is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: ≥ 18 years old Have access to internet Speak Dutch Working within a penitentiary institution, in particular in the establishments in Ypres, Merksplas, Bruges and Mechelen. Exclusion Criteria: Staff of prisons not working in participating institutions
Where it's running
-
Flemish Centre of Expertise in Suicide Prevention, Ghent University
Ghent, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gwendolyn Portzky, PhD — University Ghent
- Study coordinator: Eva De Jaegere, PhD
- Email: eva.dejaegere@ugent.be
- Phone: +32 (0)9 332.07.75
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.