Not-For-Profits Will Soon Have Access To Free Mental Health And Trauma Training

Many employees and volunteers of community groups and not-for-profit organisations (NFPs) who supported recovery efforts since last year’s floods are now feeling the effects of being ‘accidental responders’ and experiencing trauma and burnout.

Community groups and NFPs in flood-affected areas of Central West NSW will soon have access to free mental health and trauma training, plus online resources from Benefolk Foundation.

The Australian and NSW Governments have co-funded this free training via the NGO Flood Recovery Program.

It will support community organisations, their staff and volunteers across New England, Western NSW, Murrumbidgee and Far West NSW.

Griffith will be among those communities to receive face-to-face training across May, June and August.

Online, self-paced sessions will also be available to ensure everyone has the opportunity to access the training at a time that suits them.

Individuals working or volunteering in NFP groups, community organisations, charities, committees of management, and incorporated associations will be able to attend at no cost.

CEO and Founder of Benefolk Foundation, Julia Keady, who experienced first-hand the Northern Floods said the training was specifically tailored to support those who have been working so hard to help their communities get back on their feet.

“The floods through central and western NSW had a significant impact and there are many people still being supported by wonderful community organisations,” Ms Keady said.

“However, we’re hearing from NFP leaders that they feel ill-equipped to prevent the impacts of exposure to the trauma on their employees and volunteers.

“So, we developed a one-day, face-to-face course, which more than 130 organisations from the Northern Rivers completed last year, supplemented with online, self-paced courses and access to The Community Well, which has more than 100 free resources tailored to not-for-profit organisations, all focused on enhancing wellbeing.

“This is a really practical session that will be able to be put into use straight away.”

Federal Emergency Management Minister Murray Watt said community groups and NFPs have been the backbone of many regions during recent natural disasters and that funding free mental health and trauma training tailored to the needs of each community was a pleasure.

“We know that this support can take its toll on frontline staff and volunteers,” Mr Watt said.

“I’m pleased to see that this funding will provide important mental health and trauma training to the hardworking staff and volunteers who are helping their communities to get back on their feet.”

Visit https://benefolk.org/resources/central-west-special-project to learn more.

Head to https://benefolk.org/organisations/events-webinars to sign up for training sessions.

• Topics:

• Floods
• Community Groups
• Workshop / Short Courses