Supporting people is second nature to carer Hiedi from Shell Cove in NSW. So, when Hiedi, a carer for more than six years, heard MacKillop was looking for experienced carers to be mentors for people new to foster care, she happily put her hand up.
“I remember feeling nervous when I started out as a carer. You go through all the training and information sharing, but the reality of being responsible for a new little person can be daunting – even though Steve and I are experienced parents of a blended family of five!” Hiedi laughs.
“It would have made a huge difference to me to have someone to talk to who has been through the same experience, who is not going to judge me and who can offer practical experience. I love getting together with other carers. We share tips and resources all the time, so knowing that support was there for me to tap into would have been amazing. That’s why I’m delighted to be part of the peer mentoring program.”
MacKillop’s Peer Mentoring program was developed following feedback from the Spotlight initiative and our Carer Survey. In response to 'What would assist you to increase your knowledge/skill development to feel more confident in your caring role’, 25% of you said ‘More networking opportunities with other Carers’. In response to this, the Peer Mentoring program has started in NSW and Victoria and will soon be rolled out to carers in other states.
Jasmine Perry, MacKillop’s National Leader Foster Care Development says the Peer Mentoring program is something that MacKillop has planned for a while but has been fast-tracked due to the strong demand expressed by carers.
“Many of our carers already have strong support networks, but connecting with someone who has been through a similar experience is a very special type of support. We know that not all carers have the same needs, but it is clear that contact with other carers can provide shared understanding, practical assistance, help with problem solving and positive feedback. It can also reduce feelings of isolation. “
“There are lots of professional supports in place for carers, and resources to help with advice and therapeutic support. Talking to a fellow carer, who has a shared experience, is another way to support new carers, and we look forward to expanding the program throughout the states and territories where we work,” Jasmine added.
Hiedi is also looking forward to getting to know new carers over the next few months, “I want a new carer to know you’re not alone, we’ve got you and we know how you feel. Carers are a lovely community who have very special experience. We want all kids to be safe and to support each other to provide the best possible secure and loving homes.”
