Free accidental counselling for Surf Coast residents

THE Surf Coast Shire has teamed up with Lifeline Geelong to provide free accidental counselling to members of the community.

Accidental counselling courses will be run by Lifeline in recognition that everyday people often become accidental counsellors as they are the first point of contact for someone enduring a hard time.

The training will provide community members across the Surf Coast with the knowledge and confidence to identify someone in need of help and respond in a way that validates their feelings and shows empathy.

Accidental counselling courses are recommended for those who may have an increased or unexpected need for additional skills in assisting people who are in crisis.

With the global pandemic still impacting the lives of many, councillor Kate Gazzard said council recognised a need to contact Lifeline to offer these courses locally.

“This past year, in particular, has been challenging for many,” she said.

“The accidental counsellor courses are aimed at helping community members to support each other during these unprecedented times.”

The course will not amount to a qualification as a counsellor but will teach participants where to refer people for professional assistance and how to navigate these conversations.

“We know that when someone is having a tough time, the first person they often speak to is someone in their local support circle,” Ms Gazzard said.

“This training is about targeting community members who connect with many others through community groups, volunteering, sport, etc, and giving them the confidence and skills to provide support.

“So far we’ve run courses for representatives from local groups like local men’s sheds, the CFA, sport clubs and church outreach groups, and now we’re opening it up to others to express their interest in taking part.”

Courses will be delivered through a mixture of online and in-person sessions hosted at Winchelsea and Torquay.

Upcoming course dates for accidental counselling through Lifeline include:

9am – 4.30pm, March 1 at Winchelsea (in-person)

9am – midday, April 19 and 20 (online course)

9am – 4.30pm, May 1 at Torquay (in-person)

To take part in the free training, go to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/GetHelp or call 5261 0600.