New practice resource launch and end of year networking lunch (BALLINA, NORTH COAST)
A cross-sector event

Come along to this end of year event, network, and connect with people who work within NADA member agencies, as well as non government, health, and community organisations. After quite a challenging year, this event will build workforce skills and also recognise the important work and contribution of the non government sector.

Presented by the Network of Alcohol and Other Drugs Agencies (NADA), this event launches a new trauma informed practice guide to support non-government community and health workers in providing services that are safe places for consumers, their support networks, and staff. It will explore practical tips and strategies for responding to difficult situations using a trauma informed, person centred and strengths based approach.

Difficult situations in the context of service delivery can occur when a person accessing a service presents with behaviours that appear to be 'challenging' or 'concerning'. Difficult situations can arise when a consumer accessing a service is feeling frustrated, anxious, threatened or confused, or they are in a situation that triggers memories of past trauma.

The event will provide:

An overview of important elements that support the resource;
Practical trauma informed strategies to respond to difficult situations;
An opportunity to network and build referral pathways with other services and sectors to enhance collaborative practice;
A chance to hear from consumers and workers from non-government services about best practice for providing safe services;
A space to gather, eat and connect with other workers across the non government sector.

Please note: Registration to this event is prioritised for NGO sector attendees.

Other interested participants are welcome to register, however you will be contacted by NADA to confirm your attendance.

Discussion, presentations and activities will be facilitated by:

Michelle Ridley (Clinical Program Manager, NADA)

Sarah Etter (Clinical Director, NADA)

About the resource:
Over recent years, particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental disasters such as bushfires and floods, the demand for support services from the non government sector has increased. In Australia, service providers (e.g. housing, domestic and family violence, alcohol and other drugs, children and youth) have experienced an increase in complexity and need, with people presenting for support with multiple issues. Some practitioners have reported also needing to manage more difficult situations in the context of delivering services.

This practice resource provides information and practical tips for frontline workers across the non government sector, for responding to difficult situations using a trauma informed, person centred and strengths based approach. The resource discusses the impacts of trauma and how this affects people's responses to situations. It also provides practical strategies for reducing the likelihood of a difficult situation occurring within a service.

The resource and workshops are supported by funding through the Social Sector Transformation Funds from the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) via the Australian Communities Workers Association (ACWA).

For more information, contact Michelle Ridley at michelle@nada.org.au or (02) 8113 1306