“While there have been many operational challenges, it was the complexity of dealing with so many people at various stages of the recovery cycle that posed the biggest challenges for staff, but provided the most significant rewards”
Living and working in an impacted area
Video length: 2.29
On behalf of DELWP, Jolie Wills, cognitive psychologist, explains what it can be like to both live and work in a disaster impacted community
Community engagement following a disaster
Community engagement is different following a disaster for several reasons.
Foremost are the direct impacts of the disaster, which will affect people’s capacity to participate, for example:
- community members who have suffered loss and trauma might struggle with what they regard as bureaucratic processes
- many will be using their energy in the functions of daily living, which have become more complex and time consuming
- many will be under financial stress
- some might be physically dislocated from the community, living in alternative accommodation or absent from the area for long periods
- some might be isolated as a result of disability, age or culture, which might be exacerbated following the disaster
- timeframes are often different with needs and priorities changing rapidly – in the early stages these might change daily.
Nonetheless, involving the community is a vital part of minimising disaster related trauma
Psychological first aid training
We recognise the risk that undergoing demanding community engagement and handling traumatic and distressing situations can have on the mental wellbeing of our staff.
Psychological first aid training is a half day course that aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of participants to support others during times of need in these practices.
It is focused on an internationally recognised framework of "Look, Listen, Link and Follow Up". The information is applicable for daily use and during periods of disruption as well as disasters. We strongly encourage you to attend the program.
Please contact your Group Business Manager/Regional HR/Safety Officer or training services for information on training that may be scheduled locally.
Recommended Reading:
Psychological first aid: An Australian guide for supporting people affected by disaster
Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience: Community Recovery handbook and Toolkits
Support services
If anyone in the community contacts you seeking support, these links may be helpful.
Please note, if you or someone you know is in danger or needs immediate medical attention, please call 000