A practical guide for working with
In any given year, almost two and a half million people care for a person with mental illness in Australia.
“The main aim of the Guide is to provide practical assistance to providers, to work with carers in a meaningful, mutually beneficial way. A partnership approach, if you like, which will enhance outcomes for consumers,” says Independent Chair of the Project, Mr Patrick Hardwick (President of HelpingMinds).
HelpingMinds is working with mental health services in the metropolitan area of Perth to enhance staff engagement with family and friends who are caring for a person with a mental health issue. The goal is to work with management and staff to identify priorities for improving engagement and to celebrate best practice that can be replicated across other services.
A pilot with four inpatient mental health services was completed in 2017 with findings demonstrating self-reported improvements in engaging with Carers under all six standards. An independent patient experience survey at one site demonstrated an 8% increase in satisfaction under the visitors and family category.
A second pilot with four community (outpatient) mental health services is currently being rolled out. HelpingMinds Project Officers collaborate with and support services to implement the Practical Guide for Working with Carers of People with Mental Illness released in 2016. The Guide includes resources and standards that are consistent with the Mental Health Act 2014 and the Carers Recognition Act 2004.
Click here to access the Guide
“Better recognition that carers are key partners in the planning and provision of mental health care makes sound social and economic sense,” states Mr Hardwick.
E-learning modules:
Modules are available to help services implement the Guide. Each of the six modules take approximately 10 minutes and can be completed separately.
Health professionals involved in the project can access the e-learning modules here:
If you and your mental health service would like more information or would like to express interest in participating in the project please contact Cath or Sabena on 9427 7100 or cath.stewart@helpingminds.org.au
If you wish to refer a client to HelpingMinds please complete the form below.
Support & Education for
Young People
If you or someone you know is under the age of 18 and have a friend or family member that is affected by a mental health condition (a formal diagnosis isn’t required), we have many free and confidential services that can help.
Support & Education for everyone
In the family
HelpingMinds offers a range of free, professional and confidential counselling and support programs to adults who have a friend or family member that is affected by mental illness or are at risk of developing a mental illness themselves.
Support & Education for
Adults
If you or someone you know is over the age of 18 and have a friend or family member that is affected by a mental health condition (a formal diagnosis isn’t required), we have many free and confidential services that can help.
