With the Royal Commission’s special report into COVID labelling many aged care workers “traumatised” by the pandemic, the Federal Government is now coming to the rescue.
Minister for Aged Care, Senator Richard Colbeck (pictured above) announced the $12.4 million Grief and Trauma Response Package – part of the $171.5 million COVID-19 response plan for aged care support announced in August – would focus on the emotional and psychological effects of dealing with COVID in aged care settings, and be made available as soon as possible.
“The package will provide direct support to aged care residents and their families through improved advocacy assistance, grief and bereavement counselling and for aged care residents, home care recipients and their families,” he said.
“It will also ensure aged care staff have access to training in trauma-informed care, including advice on self-care and post-COVID-19 support for aged care residents living with dementia and those experiencing adverse physical, social and psychological impacts.”
The delivery of the services will be handled by:
- The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement
- Phoenix Australia – Centre for Post-traumatic Mental Health
- Dementia Support Australia
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) has also received additional funding to continue providing information to the community during the pandemic.
