Council has partnered with the Victorian Government to deliver free mental health first aid training for eligible community members.
Expressions of interest (EOI) are available for community members wanting to gain their mental health first aid accreditation. Training will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to support someone experiencing a mental health crisis or developing a mental health problem. The skills learnt in the course can be applied in any setting, with the course content tailored for delivery in a community setting.
The course will be conducted by Culturise Wellbeing Activator Hugh Stagg, and participants will be required to complete a self-paced online module (five to seven hours) before advancing to a four-hour instructor-led session on Monday 22 July from 1 to 5pm at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre.
Priority for this community-based training will be given to participants with strong community ties, including volunteers, coaches, local community coordinators and teachers.
Golden Plains Shire Council Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said the skills learned in the Mental Health First Aid course enhanced participants ability to assist other people with their mental health.
“This course empowers participants with the skills to assist community members, friends or family members who may be developing a mental health problem,” Cr Cunningham said.
“Understanding how to effectively provide support to someone struggling with their mental health is a very important skill. I encourage interested residents to complete an EOI and participate in this program,” he said.
EOIs are open from Friday 21 June until 5pm, Monday 15 July 2024. To submit an EOI, complete the online form at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/mentalhealthfirstaid2024 or collect a hard copy from Council’s Customer Hubs, Golden Plains Civic Centre, 2 Pope Street, Bannockburn and The Well, 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale.
Spaces are limited and successful applicants will be notified. If demand exceeds availability, a waiting list will be created and future course opportunities will be explored. For further information, contact Council’s Senior Community Development Officer on [email protected] or call 5220 7111.
This training is funded by the Victorian Government’s Building Safer Communities Program.