Training to help friends, family and work colleagues deal with mental health issues is available in the Maffra area.

Member for Gippsland East and Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Tim Bull, said Wellington Primary Care Partnership (PCP) was facilitating free mental health first aid sessions in Maffra, to help support farmers affected by the milk price crisis.

“Wellington PCP has received this funding as part of the State Government’s response to the dairy crisis and starting next Tuesday, November 15, it will hold free training sessions at the Maffra Football Netball Club function centre,” Mr Bull said.

Mr Bull said the course, run over four sessions (November 15, 22, 29 and December 6 from 6pm to 9pm), would teach participants to:

• Identify and approach if you are concerned about someone;

• Listen and understand without judging;

• Pass on information about getting treatment;

• Give help and support to someone experiencing a mental health problem; and

• Know what to do if a crisis situation arises.

“Anyone in the community is welcome to this training. Wellington PCP hopes to get a mix of people, from farmers and their families, tanker drivers, suppliers, neighbours – anyone out there,” he said.

Mr Bull said people could register by visiting www.trybooking.com/233350 or by contacting Wellington PCP on 5143 8843.

Tuesday, November 8, 2016