A number of community members have successfully completed Psychological First Aid Training through the support of Latrobe City Council.
Psychological First Aid Training helps people to support those affected by an emergency, disaster or other traumatic event.
The training was guided by Australian Red Cross, with 20 participants completing the course, further equipping them with the skills needed to provide effective psychological support.
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Kellie O’Callaghan said identifying and responding to community safety needs is one of the four priority areas of Council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, Living Well Latrobe.
“We understand and have seen the importance of how Psychological First Aid responders can support the most vulnerable in our community in their time of need, whether that be post a natural disaster or an emotionally distressing event,” said the Mayor.
“Psychological First Aid training empowers individuals to response effectively to emotional distress and crisis situations, helping individuals in need find a path to healing and resilience.
“I congratulate the incredible community members for investing their time and energy in such a crucial area.”
The session was held as part of Council’s Community Safety Forum supported by Victoria Police, Latrobe Community Health Service and Gippsland Multicultural Services and provided an opportunity for conversation about community safety in advance of a forum in September.
Mayor O’Callaghan said Community Safety Forums have covered various topics since they began six years ago and encouraged community members to come together and join the conversation planned for later in the year.
“Community Safety forums have been a successful tool to activate local communities to discuss a range of topics which has included Community Response to Addiction and Young People and Children’s Safety Online.
“The forums aim to build the capacity of community members to positively impact safety across the community through important conversations about safety in the municipality.
“Council is committed to support and develop place-based programs and partnerships that help guide community safety, resilience and inclusion. We look forward to further advancing the conversation relating to community safety with our community in the later part of the year.”
Due to the high demand for Psychological First Aid Training within the community, Council will consider hosting future training.
