Premier

Ice Training To Keep Our Frontline Workers Safe

07 November 2016

Training has today commenced for almost 40,000 frontline workers in how to respond safely and effectively to people who are affected by ice.

Over the next four years training tailored to each workforce will be rolled out to nurses, paramedics, emergency services workers, human services workers, teachers and pharmacy employees across Victoria.

Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley today joined nurses who are taking part in the first training session, organised by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation.

Training will help staff to manage chaotic and violent behaviour typically associated with the use of ice, better protecting their personal safety.

New Turning Point analysis of alcohol and other drug-related ambulance attendances during 2014-15 shows a 29 per cent increase in attendances for illicit substances – in particular methamphetamine, which increased by 48 per cent.

Part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Ice Action Plan, also includes an online training package and more support for managers and supervisors to support frontline staff.

The Labor Government will also provide more support to reduce the harm associated with injecting drug use by increasing access to the Victoria Needle and Syringe Program.

Five additional providers will receive a $30,000 one-off grant to expand access to equipment at Corio, Werribee, Morwell, Mildura and Shepparton – helping services extend the hours of access and engage with more users.

For more information go to www.health.vic.gov.au/icetrainingExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“We know the challenges our frontline workers face when dealing with people affected by ice – this training will help ensure they can provide support safely.”

“We’ll continue to work with health services and local communities to ensure we have a coordinated approach to tackling ice.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy

“Our frontline workers deserve to feel safe at work so they can do their job treating patients and saving lives.”

“This training is an important tool for our paramedics, nurses, doctors and social workers who are working at the coal face of this challenging issue.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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