A new training program will be piloted to help care workers look after themselves and the people they work with amid growing demand for trauma training.
The trauma training program, funded by the NSW Nationals in the state government, will see existing aged, disability and community services workers learn about the effects of trauma on themselves and others, and how to maintain their own personal health.
The NSW government recognises the important role community services workers play, particularly during the current pandemic, and has devised the trauma training programme with the wellbeing of community services and health staff in mind.
The program will be delivered through Training Services NSW, TAFE NSW, and industry leaders and will initially see more than 100 people complete training through a blended delivery model.
Nationals Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said participants will gain an understanding of how trauma can affect different people and their families and carers.
“It’s vital at this time that we look after the mental health and wellbeing of those important workers on the frontline. Giving them the skills to look out for signs of distress and how to cope are vitally important,” Mrs Taylor said.
TAFE NSW Community Services Head Teacher Keith Bourke said it was important for people to understand trauma in order to learn how to manage it.
“This is very important for support workers in the disability industry, in aged care, or in any industry working with people who may have vulnerabilities.
“Understanding trauma and understanding the process of how people are affected can be very helpful so that people don’t feel powerless.”
