Critical Incidents
Surf Life Saving NSW is committed to lessening the impact of critical incident stress on members and staff by providing best practice support following an incident.
The Peer Support Program is a volunteer member contact, support and referral program founded on the principles of Psychological First Aid (PFA).
The Peer Support Program aims to enhance and expand upon the Critical Incident support and SLSNSWs commitment to member and employee wellbeing. Peer support will play a key role in supporting members and employees following critical incidents and/or as a result of issues in their day-to-day lives.
Club Peer Supporters provide a proactive and preventative approach to support the mental wellbeing of members within their regular club involvement. Their role is to promote social connection and provide skilled peer support to individuals who may be experiencing challenges, encourage and facilitate early help-seeking actions.
Branch Peer Support Officers attend critical incidents across the Branch and provide support to the Duty Officer with scene management. They apply the SLSNSW Critical Incident Support Framework, facilitate wellbeing sessions, provide individual well checks post-incident, and refer individuals to professional support services as required.
Resources
- Branch Peer Support Officer Position Description
- Club Peer Supporters Position Description
- Peer Support and Critical Incident Management Overviews and Procedures
- Self Care Strategies
- Psychological First Aid Guide
- Critical Incident Support Business Card
- Bystander Engagement Guide
Expressions of Interest
Expressions of interest are now open for Branch Peer Support Officer and Club Peer Supporter training for the 2024/25 season.
EOIs for Branch Peer Support Officers can be submitted by members on this Microsoft form. EOIs for Branch Peer Support Officers will close on the 8th of September 2024. Training is scheduled to occur in October and November 2024.
EOIs for Club Peer Supporters can be submitted by members on this Microsoft Form. EOIs for Club Peer Supporters will close on the 15st of September 2024. Training is scheduled to occur in November and December 2024.
For any questions, please get in touch with the Wellbeing Team via email wellbeing@surflifesaving.com.au