Following the 2019-20 bushfires, the NSW Government committed $5.9 million to NSW SES to uplift and enhance the mental health and well-being services and support offered to all members.
The result was the Being Well Strategy 2023-2024, which will focus on the mental health and well-being of frontline, support staff and volunteers.
The strategy will include the recently launched Member Assistance Program, which supports members with counselling services, manager assistance services, financial well-being, nutritional advice, legal advice and more.
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York said the strategy would provide tailored support to all members.
“As a service with many first responders and critical support staff, we acknowledge the need for tailored services that will prevent risk and harm to our members, while promoting well-being and supporting mental health initiatives,” Commissioner York said.
“We have seen firsthand the impact of weather events on our communities, and while we will continue to show up each day to respond to these events, it’s also important that we focus on the wellbeing of our members.
”Initiatives that are put in place to support our frontline and support staff are vital to ensure they get the support they need following these significant events.”
