Intereach builds Mental Health Awareness in Goulburn Valley

Developing skills and building resilience in the mental health space has been part of a targeted workplace learning opportunity for staff at Intereach.
Staff from Seymour and Shepparton have undertaken the two-day program under trainer David Mellington and supported through NCN Health (Nathalia, Cobram and Numurkah) under its Farm Community Connect project.

As a Partner in the Community for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and a provider of Aged Care services, Intereach staff have direct contact with many in the farming sector and rural communities.

Intereach Co CEO Michelle Tai said the training empowered staff in an area that was complex.

“We know that there is a growing percentage of people across regional and rural Australia who will experience a mental health problem. As we cover 38 local government regional across The Riverina area of NSW and north central Victoria, we are at the heart of many communities,” Ms Tai said.

“This important training has allowed our staff to develop and practice their skills in recognising, connecting and responding to someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem or crisis.

“They are life-saving skills that we can take back to our communities.”

The Farm Community Connect Project supports farmers and farming families who have lost connection and do not seek support. It also has a strong focus on supporting women and children.

Its aim is to improve mental health and wellbeing, resilience and access to support through social connection, training and capacity building opportunities.

Intereach has 17 offices across southern NSW, north/central Victoria and Mallee, with more than 460 staff.

We support children and families, older people, people living with disability, mental health and carers. If you, or someone you know, needs support you can contact the Intereach team on the toll-free number 1300 488 226, or go to www.intereach.com.au.