Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
Prevent a suicide… Make a difference. Come to ASIST - Learn how to help
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $295 (+ GST)
The two-day ASIST workshop is one of the most extensively evaluated suicide intervention training programs.
DATES
3rd & 4th February 2011
(Eastern Suburbs)
17th & 18th March 2011
(Western Suburbs)
TIMES
9:00am – 4:30pm
Level 2 First Aid
Upgrade your basic first aid skills or refresh existing knowledge
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $140 (+ GST)
This accredited course is designed for you to acquire competency in applying first aid in a variety of First Aid scenarios.
DATES
January 2011 – dates TBC
TIMES
9:00am – 5:00pm
LOCATION
TBC, Ringwood
Dealing with Difficult People Workshop
Professional Development Workshop
ONE-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $150 (+ GST)
For anyone who has to work with or interact with a difficult person (or persons); learn how to best manage the situations involving these people and strategies to avoid further conflict.
DATE
9th February 2011
TIMES
10:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION
Eastern Ranges GP Association, Croydon
Occupational Health & Safety (OHS)
for Representatives & Supervisors
FIVE-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $750 (+GST)
This RMIT 5-day WorkCover Authority approved course is designed for workers in the health industry and includes modules on:
-Manual Handling
-Bullying
-Occupational Aggression
DATES
24th & 25th January
1st, 7th & 8th February 2011
TIMES
9:00am – 5:00pm
LOCATION
Maroondah Federation Estate, Ringwood
Train the Trainer Workshop
Learn to prepare and present a short training or information session
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $295 (+ GST)
A 2-day brief introduction to core aspects of designing & presenting short sessions for anyone who wants to gain an insight into what it takes to prepare and present a short training or information session.
DATES
14th & 15th February 2011
TIMES
9:00am – 4:30pm
LOCATION
TBC
Motivational Interviewing
Foundation Skills Course
TWO-DAY WORKSHOP $350 (+GST)
Motivational Interviewing is a dynamic, constantly evolving approach to working effectively with ambivalence to increase the likelihood of clients engaging in positive behaviour change.
DATES
2nd & 9th March 2011
TIMES
9:00am – 4:30pm
LOCATION
Eastern Ranges GP Association, Croydon
Stress Management Workshop
Professional Development Workshop
ONE-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $150 (+ GST)
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 1 in 3 workers suffer from moderate to extreme levels of stress.
DATE
23rd February 2011
TIMES
10:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION
Eastern Ranges GP Association, Croydon
Effective Communication Workshop
Professional Development Workshop
ONE-DAY WORKSHOP, CERTIFICATE, $150 (+ GST)
Participants receive a Certificate of Completion upon successful completion of the workshop. Minimum numbers required to run.
DATE
16th March 2011
TIMES
10:00am – 4:00pm
LOCATION
Eastern Ranges GP Association, Croydon
Certificate II in Asset Maintenance (PRM20104)
Vocational study for those looking to work in the cleaning industry
ACCREDITED TRAINING, CERTIFICATE, $495 (+ GST)
This accredited course is designed for anyone wishing to acquire competency in domestic and commercial cleaning.
DATES
16th, 23rd & 30th Mar
6th, 13th, & 20th Apr
TIMES
9:00am – 4:30pm
LOCATION
Ringwood
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Sunday, December 5, 2010
National Standards Poster and Video Competition Deadline
Please find attached flyer promoting the National Standards Poster and Video Competition.
Due to increased demand the deadline for receipt of entries has now been extended to 15 December.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Swinburne OH&S Training
Initial OHS Training of Health and Safety Representatives
Perform CPR
Provide Basic Emergency Life Support
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Improving Collaboration - Yarra Mental Health Alliance
YARRA MENTAL HEALTH ALLIANCE - IMPROVING COLLABORATION
A Dual Diagnosis Forum aimed at improving Collaboration & Shared Care between Mental Health, AoD, Housing & Employment Services. This Forum is for Yarra-based professional workers to consider a complex case study of a client with issues around medication abuse, non-prescribed meds + alcohol abuse. All workers from Yarra Alliance agencies are invited to attend.
Where: Turning Point, 142 Gertrude St, Fitzroy (Training room next to Charcoal Lane)
When: Tues, 9th Nov 2010, 9.30 – 11.00 am Registration at 9.15am & Refreshments
Catering supplied by Drug Responsive Outreach Program (DROP), Turning Point.
RSVP by 1/11/10: Joan Clarke, joan.clarke@svhm.org.au
Homelessness and Human Rights - VCOSS
The following was received from the Victorian Council of Social Service:
VCOSS in partnership with the Council to Homeless Persons invites you to:
Homelessness and Human Rights
Using Human Rights as an advocacy tool for ending homelessness: ‘doing rights’ in casework, organisational change and law reform
Tuesday 16 November 2010
9.30am for 10am-1.00pm
Karstens at CQ Conference Centre, Level 3, 123 Queen Street Melbourne
Join us to explore how human rights can be used as an advocacy tool to end homelessness through:
- better outcomes for individuals;
- supporting practice and systems change in order to imbed a human rights culture in policy and practice in community sector organisations;
- ensuring increased consumer participation; and
- achieving policy and legislative change.
Panel presentations will be made by:
James Farrell, Manager/Principal Lawyer, PILCH Homeless Persons’ Legal Clinic;
Tiffany Overall, Advocacy and Human Rights Officer, Youthlaw;
Jason Rostant, Manager, Community Engagement, Planning and Development, Western Region Health;
Michelle Burrell, Chief Executive Officer, Council to Homeless Persons;
Consumer (TBC).
To register – please complete the attached registration form and return by Thursday 11 November to Jennifer Heaney at VCOSS on
Fax: (03) 9654 5749 or E: jennifer.heaney@vcoss.org.au.
For all forum enquiries, please contact Michelle Lane at VCOSS on
E:michelle.lane@vcoss.org.au or T: 9654 5050.
Please feel free to contact Christiane Gurner, Human Rights Resource Officer, regarding VCOSS work on Human Rights,
E: Christiane.gurner@vcoss.org.au or T: 9654 5050
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Community Services and Health Industry Consultation Meeting
The following was received from Community Services & Health Industry Training Board Inc (Vic):
You are invited to a consultation on workforce development, skills needs, challenges and future directions.
When: 14th October
Time: 10:15 for 10:30 start finish at 12:30pm (light morning tea provided)
Where: Ground floor meeting room, 134 Cambridge Street, Collingwood 3066
This meeting is to be held with key Community Services and Health industry representatives and the national industry skills council and the state community services industry training board.
It forms part of the gathering of information for the national ISC e scan and the state industry skills needs report.
Issues to be covered include:
- How has the demand for or nature of services changed – what are the drivers of these changes; how is demand for services likely to evolve; what new or changing work roles are emerging; what are the expected broad workforce trends for the next five years?
- Workforce development challenges – what are the current and emerging occupational shortages; what inhibits improving workforce development in the community services and health industry; what workforce development trends exist?
- Addressing workforce development challenges – what is needed to address the workforce development challenges faced by our industries now and into the future; what are the policy or funding leverage mechanisms to address them; what are the barriers and opportunities?
- The role of training packages – how effectively are the training packages for community services and health supporting workforce development needs; what critical changes are needed to assist the industry in meeting its skills needs?
- Responding to the new workforce development policy environment – how can the community services and health industry best respond to the new workforce development policy environment informed by Skills Australia’s Australian Workforce Futures: A National Workforce Development Strategy; where are the most effective/needed areas of focus for workforce development policy e.g. employment and job design, recruitment and planning, as well as skills, education and training?
To register, please email cshitbv@intraining.org.au with your name, position and organisation details.
'Rethinking Rights-Based Mental Health Laws' Book Launch
Invitation to a book launch by the Honourable Justice Marcia Neave AO of 'Rethinking Rights-Based Mental Health Laws' edited by Professor Bernadette McSherry & Dr Penelope Weller.
Date: Wednesday, 6 October 2010
Time: 5.30 for 6pm – 7.30pm
Venue: Rendezvous Hotel, 328 Flinders Street, Melbourne
RSVP: Thursday, 30 September 2010
Email: marketing@law.monash.edu.au
Phone: (03) 9902 0041
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Portable Long Service Leave Legislation Update
The following was received from the Victorian Council of Social Service:
The Portable Long Service Leave Reference group was today invited to a briefing at Parliament House, by Telmo Languiller, Parliamentary Secretary for Community Services. DHS provided the briefing.
All DHS documents are being posted up on http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/pdpd/csif/ About half way down this page is the section on Portable Long Service Leave.
This includes a fairly detailed ‘frequently asked questions’ document. http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/pdpd/csif/downloads/plsl-faq.pdf
It also includes a government response to the recent PWC consultancy which the sector campaigned for, and whose findings we support. http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/pdpd/csif/downloads/pricewaterhousecoopers-response.pdf
The PLSL legislation was tabled for first reading in Parliament today. It is expected that a second reading will occur in the last sitting week of this Parliament (early October). However the Bill cannot be passed in the lower or upper house until a federal legislative amendment to the Fair Work Act is passed. Assuming this occurs in early 2011, the earliest we can expect the implementation of portability is July 2012.
A copy of the legislation will be available publicly after the second reading speech in early October. Several of us have given input into earlier drafts of the legislation, (most recently VCOSS gave input on tidying up definitions and scope wording as we felt it was unclear).
The legislation has picked up:
- The authorisation of a new Community Services Long Service Leave Statutory Authority (with an independent Chair appointed by the Government, and 2 rep’s each from employer and employees with finance and funds management expertise). Comment: This is good, VCOSS has been seeking an independent Authority, not a government department to run the scheme.
- The Authority to be given powers to levy registered employers a percentage of ordinary salary for all eligible employees (while this is not in the draft legislation it is proposed by Government that this will be approx 1.6% of ordinary wages, which will include a 0.2% admin component). Comment: It seems sensible to leave this final determination to the Authority, given the total number of workers and total costs are not yet fully known, it would be unwise for the Government to set the levy at this stage. If the pay equity determination significantly lifts wages, the admin overheads will be lower in percentage terms by the time the scheme commences.
- The scope of the scheme – participation will be compulsory for non-government, non-profit community service organisations, that run services to assist people who are disadvantaged, vulnerable or in crisis, and or children’s services. The more specific activities have not been fully spelt out but the attached links to the DHS material give more info. A number of employee categories are specifically excised i.e. employees to be covered by new multi-employer arrangements in the kinder sector; aged care workers; health workers in community health (i.e. those covered by other portability arrangements). Comment: VCOSS has made comment on previous drafts re scope, and hopes that the final version is clearer than earlier versions; we won’t know this until early October.
- There is space for opt-in registration for out-of-scope employees, organisations or administration of above-Act entitlements for those employers who seek to do this, on a cost recovery basis. Funds administered for these purposes will be employer funds (e.g. the employer will be paid interest on funds administered in this way etc). Comment: VCOSS has strongly advocated for these components and it was good to see them picked up by the recent PWC report. In effect, we hope this offers the means by which small (or large) organisations can fully outsource their LSL administration, without losing the funds from their balance sheet.
- Employees will accrue 8.7 weeks of leave after 10 years of service for employers registered in the scheme (whether they move jobs or not). Additional LSL accruals relating to specific awards or certified agreements will be above this, but not be portable. Comment: VCOSS strongly supports the principle of portability of LSL, and to the extent that Victorian legislation can pick up a plethora of industrial entitlements, several of which relate to federal awards or bargaining arrangements, this is what we expected from the scheme.
What hasn’t been picked up in legislation:
- The actual levy at commencement (see above comment – Government proposes 1.6% but the final determination will be by the Authority)
- The support the Government will allocate to setting up the scheme, including a subsidy of the on-going levy payable by employers to cover administration (as recommended by PWC) . The Government told us today that they will commit $5 million to setting up the Authority and the scheme, and allocate an additional $4m towards subsidising the levy over the first 3 years. Comment: VCOSS welcomes this first stage of funding and notes that PWC recommended Government should subsidise the 0.2% admin levy projected by the Actuary. A VCOSS ‘back of envelope’ estimate is that about $50m over the first three years would be required. Between now and when the scheme is implemented, VCOSS will need to persuade Government to fully address the cost impacts of this scheme. We need to ensure this welcome benefit to community sector workers is not treated as a cost-shift to a sector that is already struggling financially.
In particular, as with pay equity, we will need to pursue fair funding from Victorian government departments without unit pricing arrangements and push for government implementation and transition support for organisations heavily reliant on their own income sources and federal government funding.
Still to check:
- There will be an actuarial review of the scheme every 3 years. VCOSS will follow up, to ensure this will enable Government and sector to discuss the financial impacts at that time, and re-negotiate funding arrangements accordingly.
- Enforcement regime and penalities for non-compliance. We need to see the full version of legislation before being able to comment on this. VCOSS commented on some proposed elements of compliance and registration in an earlier draft and hopes that community and voluntary sector organisations will be resourced with education and assistance, and not be subjected to unrealistic requirements or overly punitive enforcement.
We will call a meeting of the VCOSS PLSL working group as soon as the legislation is made public, and agenda a longer briefing on PLSL at our regular Peaks and Statewide Networks Forum on Tuesday 5 October.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Challenging the Mental Health Maze for Diverse Communities - ADEC
The following was received from Action on Disability within Ethnic Communitites:
“What about us?” - Challenging the Mental Health Maze for Diverse Communities
Action on Disability within Ethnic Communities (ADEC) is proud to host a forum to mark World Mental Health Week on the 13 October 2010.
The aim of the forum is:
- to highlight the service gaps for people from diverse communities,
- to present the experiences of diverse communities with mainstream mental health services
- to raise awareness about access issues
Visit www.adec.org.au for further details. If you have any queries, please contact Wendy Chew on (03) 9480 1666 or email wendy@adec.org.au
Capability Mapping and Feedback Tool Workshop - Office for the Community Sector
The following was received from the Office for the Community Sector:
How to use the Capability Mapping and Feedback Tool
In March of this year the Office for the Community Sector hosted the Workforce Capability Framework Workshop.
During this time, the Office for the Community Sector has been working with Windermere to develop an online Capability Mapping and Feedback Tool. The tool aligns with the capabilities outlined in the Framework and aims to assist in mapping employees’ skills and facilitating performance appraisal.
The Capability Mapping and Feedback Tool is now complete. The workshops are designed to walk you through the tool and to answer any questions you may have. You will also be provided with a copy of the Capability Mapping and Feedback Tool.
On the day, the workshop will be split into two sessions.
Morning session (9:30am-12:30pm with a break for morning tea)
The morning session will cover the functionality of the tool, and it will provide guidance on how to customise the tool for your organisation’s needs. It will also provide you with a wide array of reporting functions.
Lunch will be provided from 12:30pm-1pm.
Afternoon session (1pm-3pm)
Participants who wish to stay on for the afternoon session will be assisted to commence loading actual data into the tool and/or to go over higher level customisation and reporting functions.
You will be required to bring along your own lap top, all else will be provided.
The sessions will be held on Tuesday 21st September and Friday 24th September at 1 Spring St, level 15. Sessions start at 9:30am
Follow up workshops will also occur in 3 and 6 months time and support is available via phone and email in the interim.
Places are limited to ensure maximum support on the day so please RSVP quickly to secure a place.
RSVP with a preferred date (and any dietary requirements) to Lucy Heller at lucy.heller@dpcd.vic.gov.au
If you have any questions please ring Lucy Heller on 03 9208 3688 or Leonie Morgan on 03 9208 3769.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Bi-polar research - Participants needed
Research Project title
The Impact of Restorative Environments on recovery from Bi-polar disorder
Researchers
Yeow May Tan
Direct Supervisor
Dr Cameron Duff, BA (Hons), PhD (UQ)
Dr Cameron Duff specializes in the use of qualitative research methods and have led qualitative studies in both Australia and Canada. He has supervised three honours projects in the past year.
Organisation
Monash University, School of Psychology and Psychiatry
This study will investigate the utility of ‘restorative places’ for people recovering from Bipolar Disorder. Qualitative methods including the use of photovoice and interviews will be used. Each participant will be provided with a disposable camera and visit their favourite places to take photographs of what recovery means to them. Also, each participant will be required to attend two interview sessions to discuss the photographs taken and tell their individual stories.
Participants must be self-identified patients who is recovering from bi-polar disorder, has been in recovery for at least 2 years and aged between 18-60 years. Also, participants must be fluent in English.
If you are interested in participating or require more information, please contact Yeow May Tan on 0431 161 288 or email ymtan6@student.monash.edu.au.
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Exhibition - Stop and Stare
The following was received from Joint Council Access for All Abilities:
Joint Councils Access for All Abilities, along with Community Access and Access Arts, will present the Stop and Stare Exhibition from 4th August to 1st September at The Gallery, St Kilda Town Hall.
This exhibition showcases a variety of artworks created by people who participate in inclusive arts projects in the City of Port Phillip. Groups including SnapShot Photography, Holiday Arts for Adults, Art Works program, the Friday Leisurely Art Group and KickstART Contemporary Art will present their artwork. Artists from within these groups have a unique perspective, ensuring there will be a great array of artwork on display.
The Stop and Stare exhibition will provide an opportunity for people from a vast array of backgrounds, including, people with intellectual disabilities, those who live with mental illness, acquired brain impairment, degenerative illness and those living in social isolation residing in the City of Port Phillip to present their work.
When: 4th August to 6th September 2010
Where: The Gallery, St Kilda Town Hall (cnr of Carlisle St and Brighton Rd, St Kilda)
Please contact Jessica at JCAAA for further information on 9209 6159
‘How far would you go in the pursuit of perfection?’ - Eating Disorders Victoria
The following was received from Eating Disorders Victoria:
Eating Disorders Victoria are launching their major annual event to coincide with Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week.
Entitled - ‘How far would you go in the pursuit of perfection?’ – the event will held at Kaleide Theatre, RMIT, Building 8, Level 2, 360 Swanston Street, Melbourne on Sunday 5th September (Fathers’ Day) from 3pm.
The afternoon will see a special screening of the film, ‘Beauty Mark: body image and the race for perfection’ which will be followed by a panel discussion featuring:
- Nicole Livingstone – Olympic and Commonwealth Medallist, Channel 10 Sports Presenter, Chair of Victorian Positive Body Image Advisory Committee
- Rob Anderson – CEO of Wheelchair Sports Victoria
- Erin Young – Director of Real Girl Productions
- Nicky Brown – YMCA Centre Program Director
This event is proudly supported by The Butterfly Foundation, Wheelchair Sports Victoria and the YMCA.
Further information is available on the flyer or on our website: www.eatingdisorders.org.au
Employment Opportunity - Alcohol and Drug Counseller - Anglicare
Part time, 22.8 hours per week
Eastern Metropolitan Region
Based in Bayswater
If you are committed to ongoing innovation and the development of leading edge services, continuous improvement and professional development, this may be the opportunity for you, Anglicare Victoria’s Alcohol and Drug Program (AGEnDAS) has a vacancy for a part time Alcohol and Drug Counsellor for 3 days per week.
We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated person for this position, working primarily in the Counselling, Consultancy and Continuing Care (CCCC) program The position includes counselling, assessment and referral, individual Forensic work, community development and some group work.
The suitable candidate should be flexible and responsive to needs of clients, possess a good working knowledge and experience of Alcohol and Drugs including services within the sector and be willing to increase knowledge and understanding of issues relating to Dual Diagnosis. Relevant tertiary qualifications and current drivers’ licence are essential.
Before applying, please obtain a position description www.anglicarevic.org.au or for more information, contact Julie Pedley on 9721 3688. Please apply, nominating three referees, to Julie Pedley Team Leader AGEnDAS, Anglicare Victoria, P.O Box 2088 Bayswater 3153 or email julie.pedley@anglicarevic.org.au
Applications close 10 August, 2010.
Industry Consultation Forums + Industry Survey - Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council
The following was received from the Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council:
The Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council (CS&H ISC) is holding four free Industry Consultation Forums in NSW, VIC, QLD and WA and conducting an Industry Survey to obtain industry feedback on Draft 1 components reflecting the work functions of Intake and Respite Coordinators.
The Industry Survey is now available to download on the Industry Consultation Forums and Materials section of the project webpage. Everyone is invited to complete the Survey to provide feedback on the draft additions.
Please download and complete this Survey and return to rebecca.seib@cshisc.com.au by Friday 20 August 2010.
What are the changes?
Three draft units of competency are proposed for addition to the Community Services Training Package (CHC08) and are intended to assist workers in Community Services who coordinate Respite for carers. The work functions reflected include:
- Use telephone communication skills to assess caller's needs
- Conduct assessment of carer's needs
- Facilitate access to information and services to support carers to meet their needs
Please be advised that this is not a training session or professional development activity. It is an opportunity for Community Services Stakeholders to provide detailed feedback on the proposed draft additions to the CHC08 Training Package based on their experience with the work functions of an Intake and Respite Coordination role.
The CS&H ISC is looking for registrations of attendance from the following:
- Government / Private Employers (including Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centres)
- Peak Bodies / Associations
- Unions
Information regarding the Industry Consultation Forums is now available on the project webpage and Registrations for the forums are now open. Numbers are limited so please register now!
Discounted Microsoft Office Training for NFP
The following was received from New Horizons:
New Horizons are a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner who won the 2009 Microsoft Partner of the Year Australia – Learning Solutions.
They offer a broad range of courses and training methods. Outlined below is some of the Microsoft Office training they offer:
- Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint Duration: 1 day Cost inc GST: $ 359 Inc 10% not for profit discount (RRP: $395)
- Group Training – Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint Daily Rate Up to 10 attendees: $1813 Inc 10% not for profit discount (RRP: $1995) All prices include GST
For any queries please contact Sean Kitchener by phone: (03) 8625 5842, or email: skitchener@nhaustralia.com.au
Duty of Care Workplace Training Programs - Special VICSERV Price Offer
Lion Global are major suppliers of self paced learning CDs entitled Duty of Care Workplace Training Programs. These CDs were designed by subject experts and legal experts to help organisations reduce their exposure to avoidable litigation.
Their four most popular CDs are:
Duty of Care Training Programs can be used as part of your organisations' overall learning & development and Risk Management Strategy. These programs can be utilised in either induction training and/or ongoing compliance training to ensure maximum protection from liability for your organisation.
Each DVD is accompanied with an accompanying Comprehensive Policy and Training Notes.
There are currently 9 titles in the series:
- Workplace Bullying Prevention- Employee Awareness & Response
- Workplace Bullying Prevention- Roles & Responsibilities for Supervisors/Managers
- Workplace Sexual Harassment Prevention- Employees (Office Version)
- Workplace Sexual Harassment Prevention- Employees (Industrial Version)
- Workplace Sexual Harassment Prevention- Supervisors/Managers (Office Version)
- Workplace Sexual Harassment Prevention- Supervisors/Managers (Industrial Version)
- Workplace Discrimination Prevention- Employee Awareness & Response
- Workplace Discrimination Prevention- Roles & Responsibilities for Supervisors/Managers
- Workplace Liability.com (Internet & Email Liability Prevention)
VICSERV has been able to negotiate a fee of $395 each including comprehensive Policies and Training Notes.
Contact Marlene Liontis at LION GLOBAL HR by email: marlene@lionglobalhr.com.au, or phone: (03) 9748 8488.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Experiences Mental Health and Insurance Survey
The following is forwarded on behalf of beyondblue and the Mental Health Council of Australia:
Insurance is one area in which mental health consumers may face discrimination, both in their attempts to access insurance and in the handling of claims.
When you apply for life insurance, the insurer will assess the risk that you might make a claim in the future. This process is known as underwriting. Underwriting aims to make the cost of your insurance proportionate to the risk involved, and have people with the same or similar risk paying the same premium. Underwriting relies on the use of statistical data and actuarial estimates.
If you have experienced a medical condition, including a mental illness, whether or not that condition was disabling in the past, insurance companies will consider that you are statistically more likely to need to claim against your life, income protection or disability insurance in the future. This statistically greater likelihood of making a claim means that mental health consumers may experience difficulties in obtaining life insurance, income protection insurance or disability insurance. Insurers might refuse to insure you at all, or might offer you a policy with only limited benefits and/or at a higher premium.
The MHCA and beyondblue are interested in the experiences of people with a history of a mental illness relating to their applications and claims for insurance products. But to do this, we need your help in completing the questionnaire to tell us how people with mental illness are being treated by insurance companies.
The survey has less than 30 questions all of which are simple and relate to your experience when applying for insurance as well as the claims process if relevant. The survey shouldn’t take more than 10-15 minutes to complete, but your responses will enable us to gain more insight into any processes that we can work towards changing into the future.
To access the survey, participants will simply have to click on the link provided below.
All surveys completed will be anonymous and treated confidentially. We are using a commercial survey tool that uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256 bit encryption method. This is the encryption method used by the US government, including the US National Security Agency for classified top secret information.
For anyone wishing to complete the survey in hard copy, simply contact Rachelle Irving (rachelle.irving@mhca.org.au or 02 6285 3100) and she will send one to you.
We would appreciate you completing the survey as soon as possible although you will have an opportunity to complete it any time up until 23 August 2010 when we will have to close the survey. We will be publishing a report about the survey findings on our website but should you request it, we would also be only too happy to send you a copy of the results.
We thank you for taking the time to read this email, and now hope that you will now give us a few more minutes in completing the survey.
If you happen to have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Rachelle who will be only too happy to help you.
Professional Development Programs - Teamwork Training Services
The following was received from Teamwork Training Services:
Group Facilitation Skills – August 25 & 26, 2010
Working with groups? Want new ideas? Strategies for difficult situations?
This two-day program looks at ways to increase participation.
- Maintain motivation and energy
- Deal with difficult dynamics
- Plan for success
- Choose appropriate activities and structures
- Lots more
A practical and involving program.
9.00 – 5.00 each day. Cost: $370 (includes course, notes, GST, lunches).
Conducted by Teamwork Training Services at Hawthorn Campus of Melbourne Uni.
For information: Tony Norquay M. 0418 134 709
Enrolment via Website: www.teamtraining.com.au OR Email: info@teamtraining.com.au
Presentation Skills – August 31, 2010.
Are you daunted by the prospect of speaking in front of an audience? Wonder how to structure your presentation to maximise impact?
This course covers techniques to
- Engage your audience
- Structure your presentation
- Get your message across
- Manage public speaking ‘nerves’
9.00 – 4.30. Cost: $198 (includes course, notes, GST, lunch).
Conducted by Teamwork Training Services at Hawthorn Campus of Melbourne Uni.
For information: Tony Norquay M. 0418 134 709
Enrolment via Website: www.teamtraining.com.au OR Email: info@teamtraining.com.au
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Fourth Forum - National Health Reform Series
Mr Robert Wells
Director of the Australian Primary Health Care Research Instituteinvites you to
Youth mental health: is anybody listening?
the fourth forum in the
National Health Reform Series
Presented by The Australian National University (ANU)Wednesday 28 July 2010
8.30am–9.45am
The Finkel Lecture Theatre, The John Curtin School of Medical Research
Building 131, Garran Rd, ANUFacilitated by
Ms Julie McCrossin
Freelance journalist and former ABC radio broadcasterExpert panel members are
Professor Patrick McGorry AO
Australian of the Year 2010
Executive Director, Orygen Youth Health (OYH)
Founding Board Member, headspace, the National Youth Mental Health FoundationProfessor Ian Hickie AM
Executive Director, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney
Founding Board Member, headspace, the National Youth Mental Health FoundationProfessor Helen Christensen
Director, Centre for Mental Health Research, ANU
Senior Principal Research Fellow, National Health and Medical Research CouncilMr Robert Wells
Director, Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute
and Menzies Centre for Health Policy, ANU
Former First Assistant Secretary, Australian Department of Health and AgeingMs Carla Frost
Consumer advocate, OYHA complimentary breakfast will be provided at 8am outside the Finkel Lecture TheatreThe forum is supported by the Australian Primary Health Care Research Institute
and the Menzies Centre for Health PolicyRSVP: Mr Will Wright
by Friday 23 July 2010
will.wright@anu.edu.au
T: +61 2 6125 2026
For more information about the series, visit www.anu.edu.au/aphcri/national_health_reform_series/
Free Mental Health Management Workshops
The NDCO program aims to improve the transition of people with a disability from compulsory education through to post school education, training and employment.
The NDCO Program has been funded to facilitate 7 workshops for Mental Health Service Managers and Disability Employment Service Managers around Victoria with the aim to increase organizational mental health awareness, holistic services delivery, risk identification and management, service response procedures and effective communication with important community services and supports.
Managers will be guided through a discussion style workshop that will assist in the development of an organisational mental health management policy.
Mental Health Week Photographic Competition
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Employment Opportunity - Fintry Community - Administrative assistant
Administrative assistant
Organisational context:
Fintry Community Incorporated (Fintry) is a small community-based organisation that provides a secure and supportive environment for people living with a mental illness. The service operates in partnership with Housing Choices Australia.
Program Area/location
3/106 Hodgkinson Street Clifton Hill 3068
ACCOUNTABLE TO:
Program Manager Fintry receives recurrent PDRS funding from Department of Human Services as Supported Accommodation.
Position Context:
The purpose of this 16 hours position is to undertake the administrative, financial function including payroll, perform the duty of the document controller, for the policy and procedure manual, managing archives file, report quarterly data to the Department of Health (DH), finalising the publication of the Newsletter, and maintaining the membership register and mailing list for Fintry Community, and provide administrative support to the Program Manager.
Essential:
Relevant experiences in administration or similar position.
Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills.
Relevant experiences in bookkeeping using MYOB or similar accounting packages.
Ability to process payroll.
Ability to write financial report.
Demonstrated computer literacy in the Microsoft Office Package preferably Excel and Publisher.
Desirable:
Tertiary qualifications in relevant area of specialty or in the process of achieving the same are desirable.
Current Victorian Driver’s Licence.
A position description is available by calling the Program Manager on 9489 4274.
Smoking Cessation for Mental Health Professionals
One-day training session on Smoking Cessation for Mental Health Professionals offered by Quit Victoria
Topics covered include:
- Smoking and disadvantage
- The important role of health professionals in addressing smoking with their clients
- The health effects and benefits of quitting
- Understanding smoking behaviour
- Motivational interviewing and smoking cessation
- Integrating smoking cessation into the routine provision of client care
- Barriers to addressing smoking cessation
- Quit Victoria’s services and resources
The next Mental Health training day will be held on 29th July, 2010 and will cost $100 (including lunch, morning and afternoon teas). The day will consist of information sharing, small group discussion and case scenarios.
If you would like further information, please contact Judi Brewster on 9635 5503 (Mon/Wed/Thurs) or Judi.Brewster@cancervic.org.au
"Mental Ill-Health in Australia: A 21st Century Approach" - Prof Pat McGorry
Special public lecture by 2010 Australian of the Year, Prof Patrick McGorry
The Monash Neuroscience and Mental Health Network welcomes you to a public lecture
"Mental Ill-Health in Australia: A 21st Century Approach"
Prof Patrick McGorry, 2010 Australian of the Year
When: Wednesday 30 June, 2010 from 6pm
Where: South One Lecture theatre, Building 64, Monash University, Clayton campus
RSVPs are essential and close 27 June, 2010. RSVP to Lisa.Hutton@monash.edu or nmh@med.monash.edu.au
Caring for Carers: Depression, Anxiety and the Impact of Caring - Live Satellite Broadcast
The following was received from the Mental Health Council of Australia:
Caring for Carers: Depression, Anxiety and the Impact of Caring
Tuesday 29th June 8.00pm (AEST) and Friday 2nd July 12.30pm – Live satellite broadcast
This program discusses the experiences and particular challenges for carers supporting a person with mental health problems. The importance of carers as part of the care team, and useful strategies for supporting a person with a mental illness are included. The program assists health practitioners to develop practical ways to support and encourage carers to look after themselves. Support, counselling and respite services are also examined.
Produced with funding from beyondblue: the national depression initiative.
Click here for more information about this program.
Working with Paranoia & Unusual Beliefs Workshop
The following was received from Prahran Mission:
Working with Paranoia & Unusual Beliefs workshop
With Peter Bullimore
Wednesday 14th July, 2010
9am – 4.30pm. Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne (Jenny Florence Room)
$100 full fee / $20 concession
This one-day workshop for mental health professionals and consumers will provide an opportunity to learn new approaches to understanding and working with people who experience paranoia and unusual beliefs.
Click here for more information.
‘Culturally Competent Mental Health Service Provision for a Multicultural Society’
The following was received from the Victorian Transcultural Psychiatry Unit:
‘Culturally Competent Mental Health Service Provision for a Multicultural Society’
A 5-module training course for all mental health professionals
“Culturally competent mental health service provision for a multicultural society” is a series of 5 one day sessions designed to provide specialist mental health and PDRSS workers with the necessary knowledge and skills to promote and develop culturally responsive mental health services.
Conducted by the Victorian Transcultural Psychiatry Unit (VTPU) with the help of the Victorian Foundation for the Survivors of Torture (Foundation House) and Action on Disability in Ethnic Communities (ADEC), the course introduces participants to relevant legal, organizational, professional and individual issues and includes:
- A whole of organisation approach to improving cultural responsiveness
- Engaging with the community
- Understanding Australia’s migration patterns (past and present) and common acculturation experiences
- The lived experience of consumers and carers from CALD backgrounds
- Working effectively with interpreters
- Understanding the impact of cultural values, sense of self and emotions on assessment and recovery-oriented practice
- Negotiating explanatory models of illness
- Responding to the additional needs of people from refugee backgrounds
While the content builds from one session to the next and participants are encouraged to complete all 5 sessions, participants may also choose to enrol in single sessions.
To register and for further information, please click here.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
SAFE in Oz - ‘An Introduction To Working With Individuals Who Self Abuse’
The following was received from SAFE in Oz:
‘An Introduction To Working With Individuals Who Self Abuse’ $330 inclusive of GST
(pre-requisite for a three day workshop; ‘Facilitating The SAFE in Oz Consumer Program’.)
Chirnside Park – 12th & 13th July 2010
Foster – 15th & 16th July 2010
Benalla – 4th & 5th August 2010
Langwarrin – 12th & 13th August 2010
Narre Warren – 16th & 17th August 2010
Melton – 19th & 20th August 2010
Who should attend the training workshops?
Mental health workers, carers who work with individuals who self-abuse, youth workers, drug and alcohol workers, student counsellors, teachers, GP’s, psychologists, counsellors, and anyone who wishes to better understand self-abuse.
There are limited places available for these workshops, therefore, it is advisable to register and finalise payments early.
Please see the workshop flyer outlining details and costs and a Registration Form.
Visit our website and view our Newsletter – ‘Hope, Help & Hanging Out’.
OCD: Present and Future - Workshop - ADAVIC
The following was received from the Anxiety Disorder Association of Victoria:
“OCD: PRESENT AND FUTURE”
A Professional Development Workshop for Mental Health Professionals
Friday, 6th August 2010
APS endorsed activity (7 Generalist Points)
Presented by
By Dr Scott Blair-West, Consultant Psychiatrist (MBBS DPM FRANZCP), Senior Fellow,
Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne Medical Director, Anxiety
and Depression Program, The Melbourne Clinic, Richmond.
This workshop will be invaluable for:
Any psychologist, case manager, mental health worker and/or social worker assisting clients who have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and those who are affected by OCD.
About the Presenter:
Dr Blair-West trained at the Austin Hospital completing his specialist qualifications in Psychiatry in 1993. He subsequently worked as lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry in the consultation liaison department for 5 years, whilst starting a private practice specialising in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for anxiety disorders especially OCD. He has been in full time private practice since 1998 and the Medical Director of the Anxiety and Depression Program (ADP) at The Melbourne Clinic since 2002. He now specialises in comprehensive management of anxiety disorders, developing new and intensive inpatient programs for OCD, novel treatment approaches for OCD and CBT supervision for psychiatrists and trainees. He regularly teaches CBT to trainees and talks to community and self-help groups on anxiety related issues.
For more information, please click here.
This workshop will be available to 50 participants only. If you would like to take part in the program we would encourage you to book early!
Bookings can now be made online.
Bookings close Tuesday 20th July 2010
Employment Opportunity - ARAFEMI - Executive Director
The following was received from ARAFEMI:
ARAFEMI’s mission is to promote and improve the well being of people affected by mental illness.
To be a strong contender for this role, you will need to be a highly motivated leader and manager. You will be an excellent communicator with a track record of developing marketing and communication plans and building successful stakeholder relationships in order to advance ARAFEMI’s profile, enhance its growth and support its sustainability beyond its present levels. An understanding and commitment to the provision of quality mental health is essential. Experience working with philanthropic organisations to leverage growth would be an advantage.
Candidates are asked to reply to each of the following criteria. Candidates should outline their relevant experience at a senior level, using examples to illustrate their experience.
To be successful in this role you will have:
- Relevant tertiary qualifications in a clinical discipline and/or health management, and or business qualifications
- Experience providing mentorship and leadership to an organisation
- Demonstrated skills in organisational management
- An understanding of the impact of mental illness on individuals, their families and carers
- Proven experience building and developing strategic partnerships
- Excellent oral and written communications and a strong ability to clearly communicate with a diverse range of staff
- Development and promotion of team-work at a service, program and cross-functional level to enhance performance
To apply for this role, please download the position description from our website: www.arafemi.org.au. Only applications that address the selection criteria outlined in the Position Description will be considered.
Closing Date for Applications: June 25 2010
For further enquiries please contact Anne Holland on 0418 369 235 or email Anne on leanholl@bigpond.net.au
“Why should YOU care about young people’s mental health?” Free Lecture with Pat McGorry
The following was received from Orygen Youth Health:
Professor Pat McGorry, Australian of the Year and a world-leader in youth mental health, will speak at a free public lecture as part of Melbourne Health Research Week 2010.
When: Tuesday 15 June 2010 at 5.30pm for a 6pm start
Where: The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Charles La Trobe Lecture Theatre, Ground Floor Function Centre, Grattan Street, Parkville
Melways ref: map 2B A7, B7 or map 43 F4
Public transport:
59 tram along Flemington Road
19 tram along Royal Parade
Places are limited and bookings are essential.
Call 9342 7814 or email catherine.lander@mh.org.au
Understanding Depression - Workshop
The following was received from Orygen Youth Health:
Places still available
Understanding Depression workshop
Date: Tuesday 22 Jun 2010
Time: 9:30am - 3pm
Cost: $130
This session aims to provide participants with an understanding of the signs and symptoms of depression in young people. It will also aim to identify the broad treatment options for managing depression in young people. Clinicians from the Mood & Anxiety Clinic at Orygen Youth Health will facilitate this session.
Training sessions will be held at:
Orygen Youth Health
35 Poplar Road, Parkville Vic 3052
A light lunch and refreshments will be provided.
Please contact Sandra Biggs on
9342 3744 or training@orygen.org.au
Download a registration form
You must register and have your registration confirmed to be able to attend these workshops.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Workshop 2010
The following was received from COTA Victoria:
Seniors Rights Victoria is pleased to announce the opening of Expressions of Interest for the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Workshop 2010, which will be held on Tuesday June 15th.
Based on feedback from last year's workshop, this year will provide greater opportunity for discussion and input from attendees, making for a dynamic and interactive day.
Keynote speakers to date include Paul Sadler, Chief Executive Officer of Presbyterian Aged Care Services (NSW and ACT), Jeni Lee, Principal Lawyer, Seniors Rights Victoria, the Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria and the Victorian Office of Senior Victorians.
As last year's workshop filled quickly, we urge you to book your place early. The full workshop program will be available in mid-May.
For more information, please click here.
Igniting Leadership - Leadership Victoria - Workshops Series
The following was received from Leadership Victoria:
Igniting Leadership - The Ideal Introduction to the Leadership Landscape
Are you on the cusp of something bigger? Igniting Leadership is designed to foster the next generation of leaders.
Featuring an exciting mix of seminars, scenario-based learning and other activities, this 5-day intensive program will shift your focus from ‘internal leadership’ to a broader, richer understanding of leadership – as practised personally and professionally, globally and locally, and across sectors and generations.
You’ll learn about leadership in terms of contemporary considerations that are vital to how leadership is practiced today, including globalisation, organisational culture, corporate social responsibility, generational styles of leadership and much more.
Participants
Individuals who have been identified as emerging leaders within their organisations. This program is especially suitable for:
- talented staff who demonstrate natural leadership skills but may not necessarily be in leadership roles;
- leaders in the first year of their first leadership role;
- high-performing team members, who will learn techniques to help them move from personal management to leadership; and
- junior-level functional managers, who will learn the difference between managing and leading.
Duration
5 days (run over 3 weeks)
2010 Dates
Series 2: 29-30 July, 5-6 August, 19 August
To Apply
Registrations close July 15 2010.
Places are strictly limited.
Please contact Simone Carrodus on 96516542 or simone@leadershipvictoria.org for more information or to register
Family Violence Risk Assessment and Risk Management Framework
The following was received from the Victorian Department of Health - Mental Health, Drugs and Regions Division:
The Family Violence Risk Assessment and Risk Management Framework is a key aspect of the integrated family violence reforms. This simple tool is designed to help professional and practitioners working in a range of fields (community services, courts, health sector) to identify risk factors associated with family violence and respond appropriately to people experiencing family violence.
The framework was developed in extensive consultation with specialists in the field and builds upon international and national evidence. An initial statewide training program on the framework was delivered throughout 2009 and it is now being utilised by family violence services and a wide range of agencies and service sectors including housing and homelessness, Maternal Child and Health Nurses, court registrars, police officers, Child Protection and disability workers.
The Victorian Government is providing a second program of fully funded training sessions to all regions across the state throughout May and June 2010. These sessions are for agencies and sectors that may not have accessed the previous training, and to meet some of the existing demand in sectors already using the framework.
The training session on Preliminary Risk Assessment is designed for professionals who work in mainstream services and may encounter and work with people experiencing family violence. The session covers:
- a shared understanding of family violence (including its impact);
- how to use the risk assessment tool to assess for presence of evidence-based risk factors;
- the safety planning process; and
- information sharing and effective referral within the integrated family violence system.
The training is being delivered by Swinburne University and the Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria in partnership with No To Violence. Together these organisations have extensive specialist knowledge and understanding, a high level of training expertise and are key stakeholders in the family violence reforms in Victoria.
Further information on the training sessions, the training schedule and enrolment procedures, can be found here.
Limited training sessions are being offered for a two month period from the end of April to the end of June 2010. Given the high level of demand we encourage you to visit the website and, if you wish to attend training, to enrol as soon as possible. Further information on regional sessions can be obtained from the organisations listed on the training website.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Mood Memos Study - Orygen Youth Health
The following was received from Mental Health First Aid:
A new study by Orygen Youth Health Research Centre at the University of Melbourne is investigating the potential of the internet to help prevent depression. The Mood Memos study is an email-based mental health promotion campaign targeting people suffering some depression symptoms, who are at great risk of worsening into full depression.
Mood memos are emails delivered every few days over a period of 6 weeks, bringing expert coping advice and information about depression directly to email inboxes. The aim is to improve depression symptoms and help prevent the descent into major depressive disorder.
The Mood Memos study is open to participants around the world until November 2010. The study is ideal for those who want to know more about how to help themselves feel better or want more information about depression. Participation is free and all data is confidential. Recruitment to the study is managed online, so those interested in taking part should visit the website to sign up, or email info@moodmemos.com.
The study is funded by the NHMRC and the Sidney Myer Fund, and has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee at The University of Melbourne.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
PILCH Walk For Justice
The following was received from PILCH:
Only ten days to join PILCH and our patron, the Honourable Chris Maxwell, President of the Court of Appeal, in our third annual Walk for Justice!
The 2010 Walk for Justice will mark the commencement of Law Week and will celebrate the pro bono ethic and work of the legal profession, and its commitment to the practice of law in the public interest.
WHEN
7:30 am
17 May 2010
WHERE
The steps of Parliament House to the forecourt of the County Court
HOW
If you have not already, click here to register or go to www.pilch.org.au/walk/
$15.00 per person, $130.00 per group of 10
(email: tj.riddell@pilch.org.au; tel: 8636 4400; fax: 8636 4455)
Sunshine Coast Mental Health Summit - 24-25 June 2010
The following was received from ConNetica Consulting:
The University of the Sunshine Coast, the Sunshine Coast Division of General Practice and ConNetica Consulting have combined to host the first Sunshine Coast Mental Health Summit on 24-25 June 2010. The Summit is sponsored by these organisations and the Mental Health Council of Australia and beyondblue.
The Summit will be led by the Australian of the Year Professor Patrick McGorry and includes many of Australia’s leading mental health advocates, consumers, researchers and practitioners. A copy of the program is attached and this will be regularly updated as session presenters are finalised in coming weeks.
The Summit will develop a Statement for Action on Mental Health which will provide a blueprint for action on a regional basis to address the mental health needs of communities. The Summit is been held In the wake of the recent health reforms announced by the Council of Australian Governments.
Further details on the Summit and Registrations can be made by visiting www.focushealth.com.au or by phoning Brenda Leather at Focus Health on 07 5443 2100.
VCOSS Community Careers Stand at the National Careers and Employment Expo
VCOSS is seeking assistance from the sector to promote the Community Careers stand at The National Careers & Employment Expo - Melbourne to be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Friday 21 and Saturday 22 May. Last year’s event attracted nearly 30,000 visitors, the majority of whom were looking for employment options or a career change. More thatn 600 people visited the VCOSS ‘Community Careers’ stand seeking information and advice on community sector careers.
Participating organisations are asked to spend a two hour period on either the Friday (between 9:00am – 4:00pm) or the Saturday (between 10:00am – 4:00pm) talking to people interested in working in the community sector.
Participating organisations are welcome to hand out business cards or small flyers promoting their organisation. In addition VCOSS can provide a link to the organisation via the community careers website. This website will be the central source of information for the duration of the exhibition and will be included on all promotional material.
If you are able to help out please email marina.henley@vcoss.org.au or phone on 9654 5050.
Employment Opportunity - ARAFEMI - Greater Dandenong - Multiple Positions
ARAFEMI is growing; help us shape the future of support and the wellbeing of homeless people living with mental illness in the Greater Dandenong region.
ARAFEMI is a highly reputable community support service, promoting and improving the wellbeing of people affected by mental illness. We are recruiting for our new PHaMs Program, which will be based in Dandenong. Opportunities within our new team include:
1 x Team Leader
3 x Outreach Support Workers
1 x Peer Support Worker (0.5 EFT job share option available)
Do you have?
- Relevant and or, extensive related experience
- An understanding and belief in strength based, recovery orientated models of service
- The capacity to engage with, and empower people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to achieve their own goals within a structured individual recovery plan
- An ability to work collaboratively with a team, carers and other agencies, such as clinical mental health and community support services
Working within a supportive, diverse and growing community organisation, successful candidates can expect: above award rates; attractive salary packaging; opportunities for ongoing professional development; and access to a wide range of flexible employment benefits. Fulltime employees may negotiate private usage of a motor vehicle.
ARAFEMI is an equal opportunity employer who encourages culturally and linguistically diverse persons to apply for these positions. Applications must address the selection criteria, which are outlined in the Position Description on our website www.arafemi.org.au.
Successful applicants must complete a police check, and hold a valid a Working with Children check card or be willing to apply for one. Closing date for applications May 21st 2010
Enquiries: sarah.rosenberg@arafemi.org.au
Turning Point - Alcohol and Other Drug Studies
Graduate Diploma in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies
+
Graduate Certificate in Alcohol and Other Drug Studies
Applications now being accepted for study in second semester.
The course handbook and the application form are available on the Turning Point website, or from Student Administration. Phone Caroline Clark on 03 8413 8708.
The closing date for applications for second semester 2010 is 4th June 2010.
Professional Development - Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre
Background
Turning Point Alcohol and Drug Centre has been contracted by the Drugs Services and Policy Branch, Department of Health (DH) to provide a number of professional development training courses. These are provided to DH funded AOD workers at no cost and are a supplement to the competency based training and assessment courses provided as part of the Minimum Qualification Strategy. Places are available for the following courses.
Psychostimulants
The from GO to WHOA training package incorporates an interactive training session on psychostimulants. It was commissioned by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing and developed by Turning Point with substantial input from a number of specialist clinicians, researchers and educators from across Australia. The Department of Health has funded the Victorian dissemination of this resource to assist in increasing skills and knowledge on psychostimulants which will enhance the capacity of a range of workers to provide appropriate interventions to psychostimulants users.
FITZROY
Turning Point Alcohol & Drug Centre
54 Gertrude St, Fitzroy
Tuesday 8th June
9.00am to 5.00pm
Pharmacotherapies
The pharmacotherapies training is designed to provide alcohol and other drug workers a greater understanding of the pharmacotherapies available for the treatment of drug dependence in particular opioid/heroin dependence. It will update workers with the latest developments of pharmacotherapy treatment including new medications and guidelines.
SHEPPARTON
Alex Rigg Room, Eastbanks Centre
70 Welsford St, Shepparton
Thursday 10th June
9.30am – 4.30pm
Working With Groups
This two-day workshop is designed to introduce workers to the planning, coordinating and running of groups for clients across a range of settings. Areas to be covered include: the practicalities of running groups, the stages of group development, awareness of group dynamics and the roles of group members. The emphasis will be on psycho-educational groups utilising an experiential approach.
FITZROY
Turning Point Alcohol & Drug Centre
54 Gertrude St, Fitzroy
Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd of June
9:30am until 4:30pm
Registration process
This training is free to DH funded AOD workers. Lunch, including a vegetarian selection is provided. Flyers and registration forms are available at www.turningpoint.org.au. Please complete the registration form and fax to Student Administration as soon as possible.
Government Media Release - 'Support for people with a mental illness and their carers'
The following is a joint media release from Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Hon. Jenny Macklin MP, and the Member for Ballarat, Ms Catherine King MP on the 21/04/2010:
Support for people with a mental illness and their carers
The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to support people with a mental illness and their carers, with a $32.3 million funding extension for local services across Australia.
Carers of people with a mental illness will continue to have access to 54 respite services across the country, with a one year funding extension of $18.5m under the Mental Health Respite initiative.
As well, 44 local projects supporting people with mental illness, their families and carers across the country will receive a funding extension of $13.8m to continue for a further year as part of the Mental Health Community Based initiative.
These local projects support families, carers, children and young people aged between 16 and 24 years affected by mental illness. These projects provide a diverse range of activities tailored to meet the needs of individual communities and include:
- peer support groups for children with a parent who has a mental illness;
- family relationship counselling for families affected by mental illness; and
- education workshops for parents caring for a teenager with a mental illness.
The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, and the Member for Ballarat, Catherine King announced the one year funding extension during a visit to Ballarat Health Services today.
Ballarat Health Services are receiving around $209,000 under the Mental Health Respite initiative to provide a variety of flexible respite services tailored to meet the individual needs of people with a mental illness and their carers.
"Caring and living with a person with a mental illness can be challenging and demanding due to the episodic nature of the illness. With the right support, we know that carers and families are critical to assisting people with a mental illness to recover and live meaningful lives" Ms Macklin said.
"These projects do great work in our local communities bringing families and carers together to share their experiences and helping them learn the skills they need in their caring role.
"This additional funding for respite services is also critical to give carers some time out from their caring duties, which is essential to prevent social isolation.
"Carers of people with mental illness have diverse and changing needs and this flexible funding will continue to give carers much-needed support."
Ms King said the funding extension would provide security for local people with a mental illness and their carers.
"Ballarat Health Service is an essential service for local carers and provides people with respite tailored to suit their needs," Ms King said.
"This funding will allow a greater number of local families and carers to access much-needed respite services.
"It is also an acknowledgement of the important role played by local families and carers in assisting people with a mental illness."
Mental Health Respite Funding Stream
VIC
Alfred Health
Southern Metro (VIC)
$1,146,383
Ballarat Health Services
Grampians
$209,201
Barwon Health Service
Barwon / South West
$344,252
Bendigo Health Service
Loddon Mallee
$296,291
Carers Assoc of Vic
Western Metro (VIC)
$671,425
Latrobe Community Health Service
Gippsland
$240,907
Merri Community Health Service
Northern Metro (VIC)
$747,669
Uniting Care
Eastern Metro (VIC)
$966,155
Villa Maria
Hume
$254,458
For a full list of nation-wide funding, please click here.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Richmond Fellowship Tasmania - Asia Pacific Regional Conference AsPac 2010 - Call for Abstracts
The following was received from CDesign:
Richmond Fellowship Tasmania
Asia Pacific Regional Conference AsPac 2010
Hope – Recovery – Future
17-19 November, Wrest Point, Hobart, Tasmania
Call for Abstracts
Abstract Submission closes 01 June 2010
A Psychosocial Approach to Mental Health
The Conference organising Committee is pleased to invite you to attend the 2010 Asia Pacific Regional Conference hosted by Richmond Fellowship Tasmania and supported by beyondblue: the national depression initiative.
We invite submission of abstracts relevant to the conference themes. Priority will be given to papers that offer critical or reflective comment other than purely programme descriptive oral papers. The conference program calls for papers which advocate at all levels within service providers and government for policy and attitudinal change to assist Tasmania and Australia to lead the way in promoting best practice in the field of mental health and Recovery.
The theme for 2010 is Hope - Recovery - Future. This theme recognises that these words are intertwined and inter-dependent of each other; without one the other will fail to thrive. This is true of a person’s or community’s or nation’s health and well- being and we hope to explore these factors throughout the conference.
We welcome you to join us in exploring the future and what this may hold. Consumers, carers, service providers and policy makers are invited to attend and contribute to what will be a stimulating and thought provoking conference. We promise to ask many questions and ask you to assist with discovering some of the answers or options which are out there.
Keynote Speakers include:
Professor Patrick McGorry
Gregor Henderson
John McGrath
Brian Graetz
Therese Fitzpatrick
Kanthi Perera
For more information please visit the website at www.cdesign.com.au/aspac2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Mental Health Non-Government Organisation Workforce Study
The following was received from the Mental Health Coordinating Council:
The survey can be accessed and completed online.
If you are unsure whether your organisation has completed the survey please call the project assistance line on (03) 9092 2074 or nhwt@dhs.vic.gov.au
We recognise that web-based may not be the optimal method for all participants and therefore faxed or paper-based copies of the completed survey will be accepted. Copies of the paper-based survey can be accessed at www.nhwt.org.au or by contacting the hotline.
Completed responses of the survey can be faxed to (03) 9092 2093 or emailed to nhwt@dhs.vic.gov.au .The paper based surveys can also be posted to the National Health Workforce Taskforce, Level 12, 120 Spencer Street, Melbourne, 3000.
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