Caring for the Carer – Carer Peer Mentor Program

Townsville Carers of those with a mental illness now have access to an innovative new initiative aimed at boosting their own social and emotional wellbeing, as well as creating new career paths in the NDIS sector through selectability Training’s Caring for The Carer Program.

The Townsville-based specialised Community Services RTO developed the program – believed to be the first of its kind in Queensland. It combines a nationally recognised Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) with peer-support driven activities and excursions designed to connect, inspire, reward and educate Carers and ultimately empower them to prioritise their own self-care and provide peer mentoring to others.

Caring for The Carer, funded by leading regional Queensland Mental Health NDIS Service provider selectability, is open to current paid and unpaid carers including family members who care for a loved one with a serious mental illness.

It is being delivered at no out-of-pocket expense for successful applicants. Training Manager, Jonathan Mehigan, said carers often give so much to others that sometimes they forget that caring for themselves is important too, and this program acknowledges carers play a critical role in the community.

“Our carer participants are not only rebuilding their self-worth and confidence, but they are gaining a formal qualification which opens up employment opportunities as well,” says Jonathan.

“They are developing mentoring skills and establishing a strong network of localised peer support, so we expect long-lasting wider positive impacts for the carer community.

“As a community-minded organisation our focus is to continue to make a difference to our community by establishing innovative programmes, that drive up individuals’ skill levels to support existing and emerging employment ecosystems,” adds Jonathan.

Carer Profile – Alicia King

Alicia is carer for her foster daughter who lives with cerebral palsy, is non-verbal, has sensory processing disorder as well as post traumatic stress disorder and other challenges. Alicia is excited to be accepted into the program and is looking forward to making peer connections. She hopes to use the program as a launching pad for a future career in NDIS Support Co-ordination or plan writing. 

“I have found being a carer somewhat isolating because your mind is so one-tracked on supporting someone else,” says Alicia.

“The training qualification is something that I haven’t fully considered before due to the demands of being a high-needs carer, and the fact that we’re usually unpaid and funds for training are often not readily available.”

Apply Now
www.selectabilitytraining.com.au/programs/caring-for-the-carer
E: training@selectability.com.au
P: (07) 4723 1666