Learning from peers is powerful and positive for young parents
3 August 2010
A unique training program developed by UnitingCare Burnside Family Support Service at Coffs Harbours is helping young parents become mentors to their peers.
The ‘Parents as Mentors’ program was funded by the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs under the ‘Protecting Australia’s Children Funding’.
Co-ordinator of UnitingCare Burnside’s Coffs Harbour Family Support Service Ruth Allen said, “Having support, information and encouragement from your peers, who are experiencing the same challenges, is very powerful. It can motivate and inspire us to take on new directions, make positive change and give hope for improved outcomes for our children.”
The mentor course is a 10-week (10 days) TAFE accredited program that is open to any parent who attends one of the Supported Playgroups at Coffs Harbour. The course subjects are child focussed and include communication, self esteem, child development and child protection as well as information on support services available in the community. On completion of the training participants gain a TAFE certificate in Mentoring which then improves access to other educational opportunities.
Mel, one of the program’s graduates said, “My self esteem was pretty low when I started the course. I turned up expecting to fail but the teacher told me I did really well in the end. It was a first time for me: I never knew I could do anything like that”.
Another parent Sharon said, “I love helping and I especially love helping the newer mums. For some it’s their only real time out of the house where they can sit down, and relax, and share what’s going on. And not have to constantly do things and worry.”
“In 2009, an external evaluation of the program found that as a result of the training mentors show an increased knowledge of child development, child protection and community services. They showed improved communication skills and greater confidence and awareness of body language and the ability to constructively manage conflict. 100% of participants have stated they will undertake further study. Employment opportunities have also improved for parents who completed the course”, Ms Allen said.
The program is supported by a book and DVD entitled, “Come together” and includes stories of young graduates of the program.
The Parents as Mentors program will be launched by UnitingCare Burnside CEO Jane Woodruff at the ACWA 2010 Conference on Tuesday 3 August at 10am followed by a morning tea.
For more information please call Ruth Allen, UnitingCare Burnside, Coffs Harbour Family Support team T: 02 6659 2821 E: rallen@burnside.org.au www.burnside.org.au
Media inquiries to Mark Warren 0438 294 938 or Karen Bevan on 0400 379 656.
