Thanks to funding through the Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN), hundreds of locals throughout the Greater Geelong region now have the skills to help keep their community safer from suicide.
*There is a still an opportunity to take the LivingWorks Start online training for free, fully funded by Western Victoria PHN. Click here to register*
The partnership between LivingWorks Education and WVPHN has provided access to a range of in-person and online training and education programs targeting community clubs including volunteers, coaches and other club personnel, schools and other youth points of contact, aged care services and facilities and community-based carers.
LivingWorks Victoria Training Manager, Renee Tsatsis, said the training is intentionally designed for anyone to be able to learn.
“It’s so important that people know that it is ok to start a conversation about suicide, and you don’t have to be the most expert of mental health clinicians to do that – anyone can do that,” Ms Tsatsis said.
“We know that the ASIST model works and is effective in that people who do the training walk away with the confidence to reach in and offer help to someone they see who may be having thoughts of suicide,” she said.
The response to the training has been overwhelmingly positive, see a snapshot of feedback below.
“Loved the workshop. Trainers were knowledgeable, approachable and friendly – and very sensitive to our own personal stories” -Mental Health Worker, Geelong (ASIST participant)
“Excellent trainers, everything was presented clearly. Easy to see how these skills could be utilised in both my personal and professional life. Will be highly recommending this course” -Nurse, Geelong (ASIST participant)
“Calm, warm and welcoming delivery. I felt safe and trusted” -safeTALK participant, Geelong
Well done to everyone who has joined a workshop across Great Geelong, Surf Coast and Holiday Plains across the last 12+ months!
LivingWorks Start training is also being funded by NSW Health until June 30, 2024. If you are a NSW resident, learn more and register for free training here: www.livingworks.com.au/NSW
