News - 13.02.2023

VR supports the Pieta Association

VR has agreed a grant of 6 million ISK to the Pieta Association for research on suicides in Iceland. The concequences of suicides and suicide attempts are not limited to the physical injury or death of the individuals involved. Suicidal behavior inevitably also has serious mental, social and even physical effects on friends and family, and such effects can last for years or even decades.

The research, funded by VR, will be carried out by Rannsókn & greiningar (Research & Analysis), on behalf of the Pieta Association. The aim is to increase knowledge in this field here in Iceland. In particular, the research is intended to further develop prevention work. The results are expected in the fall when a seminar is planned on this urgent subject, which is of concern to so many. According to Dr. Sigríður Björk Þormar, chairman of the board of the Pieta Association, a detailed analysis of the data is needed to better understand the factors that are most important to focus on when it comes to preventions, or place the greatest emphasis on in treatment. This will be an important first step in that approach.

VR's Board has intervened in and supported many issues related to social responsibility, and this important project is part of that journey.

Photo: Þórir Hilmarsson, VR board member, Ragnar Þór Ingólfsson, chairman of the board of VR, Kristín Ólafsdóttir from the Pieta Association and Dr. Sigríður Björk Þormar, chairman of the board of the Pieta Association.