Homicides and homicide-suicides perpetrated by unpaid carers (also known as family caregivers) regularly make the headlines, but little is known about these tragic events. Associate Professor Siobhan O’Dwyer leads research that explores why carers think about ending the life of the person they care for, what triggers them to act on these thoughts, and how better support for people with disabilities and their families might prevent deaths by homicide and homicide-suicide.

This research has been published in peer-reviewed journal articles, inspired critically acclaimed plays and artworks and made international news, and it is now informing changes in policy and practice. If your organisation would like to understand the evidence or build your skills for preventing homicide, training is available.

A study on carer-perpetrated homicides in the UK is currently underway. The findings from this work are expected to be publicly available in 2024, but early access is available for health and social care professionals, local authorities, charities, and legal professionals. Contact Siobhan to find out more.

If you’re a carer who needs support, please contact Samaritans (in the UK), Lifeline (in Australia) or the telephone helpline in your area.