News
16th July, 2020
AV flag proposed changes to peer support program
Recently Ambulance Victoria (AV) held a consultation meeting with Peer Support members regarding potential changes to Peer services. The Victorian Ambulance Union Incorporated (VAU) also attended the meeting. Members were provided with information about plans to increase access to Peer Support across the State. Matters discussed in the meeting included:
- Team Manager (TM) and Senior Team Manager (STM) involvement in critical incident contacts;
- The use of volunteer PEERS (separate to Peer Responders);
- The availability of regional pool cars to be used by PEERS, Chaplains and volunteers.
Since the meeting, some PEERS have provided positive feedback about the proposed changes, however an overwhelming number of PEERS, including the VAU have some major concerns with what AV is proposing.
The VAU is supportive of any efforts to expand options for support to members including Chaplaincy and volunteer PEERS. However, the ‘jewel’ of the PEER program are our experienced PEER Responders and the roles of the 2 more experienced paramedic PEERS who have always been seconded into the PEER Coordinator position.
These members who perform face to face critical incident contacts and proactively visit branches and work locations are highly respected and trusted amongst the workforce and the feedback we have received from members confirms this.
The consultation process is ongoing and the Union will work constructively with AV to ensure the PEER Support program is improved in a way that members would like and not watered down so it loses its efficacy. After all, the PEER program is a program that is tailored for frontline, operational members and delivered by these same understanding and experienced members.
In Solidarity,