TAFE NSW – Western Institute has been working hand-in-hand with the Greater Western Area Health Service (GWAHS) to help improve vocational opportunities for people with mental illness. The project includes training and support for TAFE NSW teachers involved in course delivery, as well as increased access and support for students to access vocational training.
‘A couple of years ago we observed that there had been a big increase in students experiencing mental illness and we were struggling to offer adequate training support for them,’ said Jo Sedgers, Director of Learning and Engagement at the Institute.
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‘We did some research and started a discussion with GWAHS on how we could do things better. We also realised that training and education could become a major plank in approaches to rehabilitation.’
A teacher consultant (psychiatric) was appointed at the end of 2008 to work with GWAHS mental health services and teachers from TAFE NSW. A total of 87 students are currently involved in the program, and courses covered so far have included workplace hygiene, literacy and numeracy, ceramics and small motors. Others, including carpentry, and tourism and hospitality, are in the pipeline.
‘This training offers extra opportunities for students with a mental illness to access education and job opportunities,’ said Lindsay Johnson, teacher consultant (psychiatric).
Courses are being delivered at Bloomfield Hospital in Orange and onsite at TAFE NSW facilities.
‘Involvement in education is known to contribute to self-esteem, quality of life and employment,’ said Dr Russell Roberts, Director of Mental Health, GWAHS. ‘It also has the potential to aid recovery for people with a mental illness. People who have a mental illness generally want to work and be able to do so. Vocational education and training increases employment opportunities for everyone.’
