Wellness Update
The following information has been received from the DFES Wellness Branch.
The communities that we serve are currently experiencing the impact of the devastation of the Tropical cyclone Seroja. We applaud the ‘community spirit’, the practical support and donations that continue to flow generously to the most affected areas.
We acknowledge the tireless efforts of our emergency services volunteers who continue their work in different towns directly hit by the tropical cyclone. We are grateful for the assistance we have received from the Eastern States who have deployed first responders to assist us during these challenging times. The wellness team has been in constant communication with key operational officers on the ground since the tropical cyclone.
We have been informed that crews are working hard under very trying circumstances which is going to result in fatigue, stress and is going to amplify any pre-existing issues.
Our strategies:
► To support crews through their managers, captains and commanders.
► Encourage support in their peers and community.
► Provide information on other supports available.
► Stress the importance of identifying individuals that are struggling to cope with the current situation and help them with every resource available (e.g. EAP).
► A designated Peer Support Officer will be present and available during the recovery phase.
► Wellness branch will be coordinating BGU visits during the recovery stage in the next couple of weeks.
To date we have contacted all individuals who have been directly referred to wellness.
We encourage and remind each one to exercise selfcare.
- Ensure that you are able to take the necessary breaks in between your workload. Keep an eye and support each other.
- Communicate with your manager any concerns related to your health and wellbeing.
- Utilise the resources we have available through the Employee Assistance Program.
PeopleSense 1300 307 912 or (08) 9388 9000
Martinovich Psychological Services (08) 9433 6559
We encourage Managers and Supervisors to directly Contact wellness@dfes.wa.gov.au or call 0413 312 426 to speak with the wellness team member.
Wellness Chaplain is also available to be contacted on 0436 523 421
