The Drought project began with a two day forum in February 2007, which was attended by 35 of the 41 newly funded drought counsellors. In addition to providing networking opportunities and collegiate support, and engaging participants in the research project, the first day delivered a shortened version of a one-day training workshop in NBT. The second day presented basic information about providing help to rural communities (including risk assessment) and gave attendees an opportunity to discuss creative ways to use community development approaches to effectively support people affected by drought.
A second Drought Counselling Forum was held in February 2008, largely in order to facilitate the sharing of best practice and lessons learned between counsellors. Participants developed the following Position Statement during the forum.
|
A sustainable long-term vision is vital to support rural communities as they adapt to social, economic and environmental changes. The social and emotional support for this work would be facilitated by Rural Outreach and Support Workers, building on the established networks and knowledge gained through the drought work, informed by universal recording systems and supported by co-ordinated funding from each level of government, and integration with key services.
To be effective in their work, Rural Outreach and Support Workers would require a repertoire of skills and knowledge, including: assertive outreach capabilities, flexibility and an understanding of the challenges of rural communities. Rural Outreach and Support Workers and their organisations would need to develop effective and innovative ways to combine counselling and community development approaches.
A Rural Outreach and Support Worker’s Starter Kit should include:
|
The agendas from the 2007 and 2008 Drought Counselling Forums are available below.
