Announcements Peer Support program launched for RMH Staff at The Royal Melbourne Hospital who are suffering from stress or have experienced a critical incident will be able to access immediate 24-hour support thanks to the development of a Peer Support Program. Launched by Melbourne Health Interim Chief Executive Prof Len Gray, the program has 40 Peers providing service-wide support for all employment disciplines, and follows months of planning, training and finally implementation of the concept. The Peer Support Program was borne from Council of Nursing Practice and the New Millennium Nursing Project, where staff had highlighted the need for a local, multidisciplinary structure to assist staff in dealing with stresses of the job.
All support is provided on a confidential basis.
RMH Chief Nursing Officer Ms Sue Williams said the Peers were in a unique position to understand the demands of the hospital environment because of their familiarity with the setting and staff. Peer support is an important initiative for this Hospital. Staff can be assured that if a critical incident occurs or if they are experiencing work or personal issues, they do not have to take the problem home with them. The stress caused by a critical incident can be reduced if staff can access support immediately. I have great confidence in our Peers they are all very enthusiastic about the program and their dedication and willingness to participate will ensure the success of the program, Ms Schilcht said.