Youth Mental Health First Aid Workshops coming to Campaspe

Published on 19 April 2024

Campaspe Shire Council is hosting a series of free Youth Mental Health First Aid training workshops through May and June.

The workshop series facilitated by Shannon Lacy, accredited Mental Health First Aid provider, equips adults who teach, care for, or support young people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise, understand and respond to a young person experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis.  

Mayor, Cr Rob Amos recognises it’s a great opportunity for those who work closely with youth to support and provide strategies that can be used for youth experiencing mental health problems.

“Young people in our region have experienced so much turmoil, change and adversity over the last few years in relation to floods and other emergencies. The workshops will assist in understanding their challenges and perspectives and support them going forward.  

“One of the key objectives of our Community Development and Flood Recovery teams is to establish long-term impact and benefit for the region, and this is a great place to start. Adults looking for more information and resources to support young people and their mental health should consider attending the free training sessions.

“The workshops will take place in Echuca, Kyabram, Lockington, Rochester and Rushworth, and will leave attendees with a three-year accreditation,” Cr Amos said. 

The sessions are available to anyone over the age of 18, working with young people, including parents, coaches and teachers.  

The Recovery Hub is also offering Psychological First Aid sessions that are applicable for all ages in collaboration with Phoenix Australia. Those looking for a wider scope that provides a practical, flexible and recommended approach to helping those affected by trauma would benefit from these four-hour sessions.

“The training helps reduce initial distress and assists people to cope following a traumatic event. Visit Council’s website for more information and to register for these sessions.

“It’s just another way we’re supporting and providing necessary tools for our community to thrive,” Cr Amos added.

These sessions are supported through the state government’s Engage! funding program and the Community Recovery Hub is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments.

For more information, contact Council’s Youth Community Development Officer on 5481 2200 or visit www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/youth.  

Workshop dates: 

4 and 5 May – 2 days in person workshop at Lockington Men’s Shed

1 and 2 June – 2 days in person workshop at Rochester Recovery Hub

20 and 21 June – 2 days in person workshop at Echuca Aerodrome 

22 and 23 June – 2 days in person workshop at Echuca Council Function Centre 

29 June – blended online and in person workshop in Kyabram. Location to be confirmed. 

30 June – blended online and in person workshop at Rushworth Service Centre and Library