CFA's Traditional Peer Support Program has welcomed 17 new graduates from 11 Districts.
The new graduates were presented with their certificates at a ceremony on Saturday 16 March at Foothills Conference Centre in Mooroolbark.
They bring the total number of Traditional Peer Support Program team members across CFA to 166, with 14 peer teams located across the state.
CFA's Traditional Peer Support Program started in the late 1980s after Ash Wednesday, and includes people from across the organisation.
The program has continued to grow with improvements made to the training program so peers provide best-practice support, knowledge and skills.
CFA also has 54 Career Firefighter Peers active across Victoria to meet the needs of our career firefighters.
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DCO Gavin Freeman (far left) and Wellbeing Services Advisor Tim Rogers (far right) with the new Peer Support Program members
DCO Gavin Freeman, who presented the new peers with their certificates, said having someone to reach out to was vital particularly after experiencing a potentially traumatic event or stressful personal event.
"Those who have accessed CFA's Peer Support Programs know and understand the invaluable support the service provides to members and their families," Gavin said.
"Our peers are not only highly trained; their first-hand experience means they have a unique insight into what our people experience on a day-to-day basis.
"I encourage all of our people to reach out and utilise the service when and if they need to."
To express your interest in becoming a peer, contact your local district Peer Coordinator through the CFA Wellbeing Support Line on 1800 959 232 (select the Peer Support option).
Access CFA's Wellbeing Support Line
If you are not okay, or if you notice a change in someone you know, contact the CFA Wellbeing Support Line on 1800 959 232 to access free, confidential support that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
These services are available to all CFA volunteers, employees and their immediate family members.
The support services include the Member Assistance Program with Psychologists and Counsellors, Traditional and Career Firefighter Peer Support Programs, Chaplaincy Program, Bullying and Harassment Hotline, Centres Against Sexual Assault as well as other services provided by the Organisational Wellbeing team.
To view the complete range of services visit www.cfa.vic.gov.au/wellbeing
