Physio & Health - Aaron Hardaker

Pregnancy and PostNatal Recovery – How Can a Physio Help?

with AARON HARDAKER

Are you pregnant and suffering with back pain? Have you just had a baby and unsure about how to help your body recover? Are you wanting to get back to exercise and not sure when it’s safe, or whether your pelvic fl oor is up to it? Pelvic health physios are an integral part of the healthcare team through pregnancy and the postnatal period. But what exactly can they help with? We caught up with Sarah Brown, pelvic physio at Mid North Coast Physio in Woopi, to fi nd out more.

What can pelvic fl oor physio help me with during my pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time of enormous physical change in the body. Pelvic physios are full of information about the changes that occur and what it means for you as you progress through pregnancy. We have post-graduate training in the ways pregnancy affects the various systems in your body- particularly the impact of pregnancy and childbirth on your pelvis, pelvic fl oor muscles and pelvic organs. We can guide you through the role of the pelvic fl oor muscles, help you prepare for labour and delivery, assist in managing pain such as Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain and Low Back Pain AND help you manage any symptoms of pelvic fl oor dysfunction (e.g. urinary incontinence).

When should I see a physio during pregnancy?

It’s a great idea to have a chat with your pelvic health physio and run through some birth preparation as you progress through your second and third trimesters. It’s also helpful to check in at any time if you have specifi c questions about exercise in pregnancy, have a history of pelvic fl oor dysfunction prior to pregnancy or are experiencing any aches and pains.

What about after I give birth?

After either a vaginal delivery or caesarean, you should see a pelvic health physio at the 6-week mark as you do your midwife/GP/obstetrician. This is where pelvic health physio can address any birth injuries (perineal tears, pelvic organ prolapse, C-Section scars), assess the function of the pelvic fl oor muscles and help you get back to physical activity safely. Pelvic physios will be able to provide advice, guidance, and a plan for rehabilitation after giving birth.

What services do you offer at Mid North Coast Physio?

ALL OF THE ABOVE! I work with women through pregnancy offering birth prep consultations, 1:1 exercise sessions, hydrotherapy in our heated pool (which is great for relieving pain, reducing swelling and offl oading pressure as bub grows in pregnancy) and mums & bubs Pilates groups.

I also provide individual postnatal reviews from the 6-week mark where we discuss any concerns you have after giving birth and start to work towards your goals!

Thanks Sarah. To book your pregnancy assessment, post-natal review, or Healthy Mums Post-Pregnancy Pilates class with Sarah, call the friendly admin team at Mid North Coast Physio on 1300 273747.

TERRYWHITE

CHEMMART

TerryWhite Chemmart Co s Harbour has been a mainstay of Park Beach Plaza for the past 28 years, always a favourite for locals and always with the local community at its heart. e pharmacy is owned by North Coast local Tanya Maloney.

Over the years, beauty has remained constant as a core category for for the store but there has been substantial innovation in its delivery to accommodate changing demand.

“It is a great fit for our pharmacy as our core focus is on health and wellness. Beauty is entwined with individuals’ sense of health and wellbeing,” Ms Maloney said.

“One of our strengths is our ability to evolve over time to remain a destination of choice within the local community. The changes we have made repositions our beauty offering, sets our pharmacy up to make the best possible use of its beauty space, and injects new life into an important area of the store.”

“Our beauty team is actively listening to each customer to ensure the beauty experience and advice is very personalised.”

“The results are very positive and show our research and investment have been worthwhile, with our beauty department well matched to the demands of the pharmacy beauty customer – who tends to be time poor, but also likes to know expert advice is at hand,” Ms Maloney said.

TerryWhite Chemmart is your one-stop shop for all things beauty related – whether you’re after natural beauty products or top department store beauty products, whether you’re after value for money or a splurge of extravagance – they have something to suit every budget.

The shop stocks a range of beauty brands including Estee Lauder, Clinique, Lancome, Napoleon Perdis, Revlon and Designer Brands. There is an increased offering of L’Occitane, Glasshouse and Circa brands. You can also choose from the largest range of fragrance in Coffs Harbour from budget brands and celebrity fragrances through to high end brands including Dior, Carolina Herrera, Armani, Gucci and Marc Jacobs.

What stands out most when you enter

Whether you’re a er natural beauty products or top department store beauty products. Whether you are a er value for money or a splurge of extravagance they have something to suit every budget.

TerryWhite Chemmart is the combination of high presentation standards, customer service and positive team culture. It can be seen from interactions that the team are passionate about the business and their customers.

Staff spotlight

The beauty team consists of 11 staff who have loads of training and experience in makeup, skincare and fragrance.

Julia is Assistant Manager at TerryWhite Chemmart and heads up the beauty team. She is part of the Estee Lauder team along with Yvonne and Ros. These ladies have worked together for many years, and they have a loyal following of clients and love introducing new clients to the Estee Lauder brand.

Bindy is the Clinique consultant and is an extremely talented skincare consultant and

What stands makeup artist. Bindy out most when is well known in her you enter TerryWhite industry for her high Chemmart is the quality makeups. combination of high Ann is the Lancome presentation consultant and is very standards, customer passionate about service and positive the Lancome brand team culture. and its products. You can book in for a complimentary individualised skin care consultation with Ann and she can assist you in determining the best skin care regime to suit you and your skin. Paige is the Napoleon Perdis Makeup Artist and is highly skilled in the latest makeup application techniques. Paige can assist with a one-on-one makeup lesson or can tailor your makeup look for your special event such as school formals, glam events or a night out.

Vicki is one of the original team members who has been with the store for the entire 28 years. Over the years she has mentored many of the current team members and brings her loyalty, experience and unique skill set to the pharmacy.

Vicki, Amanda, Joanne, Kylie and Carmel are fragrance specialists and can help you find the perfect scent for you or the perfect gift for your friends and family this Christmas.

Welcome

DENTAL

e Christmas season has fi nally arrived for 2021, we are all ge ing into the festive spirit early this year.

It’s time to sit back and relax, enjoy the holidays with loved ones consisting of endless eating and drinking. However, grazing and drinking sugary drinks can have signifi cant impacts on your oral health. The more you graze, the more you expose your teeth to sugar, the more chance that problems occur.

At Welcome Dental we see a high rate of dental emergencies this time of year. Toothaches, broken teeth and dental infections... well that doesn't sound very festive does it! Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without those extra treats though, right! Many of the treats we enjoy are fi lled with sugar, which is one of the major causes of tooth decay. Not only this, but we also seem to take more risks leading us to breaking teeth, which means a visit to the dentist, not the greatest gift for Christmas.

Even though it’s time to relax, it doesn't mean you should relax your standards for taking care of your teeth!

It is recommended that we continue to see our dentist and dental hygienist for preventive dental treatment, such as routine examinations and cleans. Early carious lesions, cracks, demineralisation surrounding existing fi llings can all be diagnosed and addressed prior to these conditions becoming an issue.

It’s all about routine and sticking to it throughout this festive season. We can all be a little too relaxed when it comes to fl ossing and brushing well. These simple tasks if done correctly are the best prevention and can save you an unplanned dental visit which could result in missing out on the Christmas cheer!

Flossing seems to be the most forgotten or disregarded part of the oral hygiene routine, yet it plays such an important role especially after those sugary meals. Floss is designed to get into the spaces between your teeth where your toothbrush simply doesn't clean. Be sure to fl oss prior to brushing, by doing so the contacts between teeth where decay most commonly starts is plaque free.

On average people think they brush their teeth for 2 minutes but in fact its approximately 30 seconds! Use your smart phone or a timer to ensure that you spend 2 minutes to reach every aspect of the tooth surface. Perhaps use an electric toothbrush with a timer, an effective way to ensure your brushing for 2 minutes (a great gift idea also).

Your teeth aren’t tools! It may be tempting to tear open Christmas packaging, or cut the ribbon surrounding presents using your teeth. This can cause broken fi llings, cracked or lost veneers, loose crowns and dentures.

Commonly those dental problems which cause that sightly broken tooth are a result of eating that delicious pork crackle, olives, nuts and dried fruit in Christmas cake or minced pies. As a result it may be a painful, expensive and stressful over the holiday period.

We want you to enjoy this festive season, a dental check-up and clean is a sure way to enjoy your holidays, create memories to cherish with loved ones, all with a bright beautiful smile.

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year fi lled with an abundance of cheer, from Welcome Dental.

Susan Waldorf Oral health Therapist

We’ll turn that frown upside down.

Christmas Opening hours.

24th December – Normal Hours 25th – 28th December – Closed 29th December – Emergencies Only 30th December – Emergencies Only 31st December - Emergencies Only 1st – 3rd January – Closed 4th January – Normal Hours

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you soon. Our phone number remains the same but our email address has changed. Phone: (02) 6655 5800 Email: info@welcomedental.com.au Website: www.welcomedental.com.au

MENTAL

OF

NUTRITION

Local personal trainer and nutritionist, Rachel Law delves into the motivation behind her nutrition and fi tness journey. Rach also shares the importance of exercise and diet for our mental health.

What is your

connection to the Coffs Coast?

I was raised here, I have seen the growth and change in the Coffs coast over the last 38 years. I’ve bought up my beautiful two boys here, worked and made some long lasting friendships.

Tell us about your business, Law of Nutrition. What services do you provide?

My business provides a positive approach to a fl exible lifestyle. Working on the whole person as an individual for nutrition, personal training and mindset.

In terms of your personal motivation, did you have a particular moment or time in your life when you decided that you wanted to pursue a healthier lifestyle?

Yes, defi nitely! I had just moved out of my dad's place and one of my housemates was always negative to me about my weight.. I then decided to create a healthier lifestyle by eating healthier and daily exercise. Once I became a mum I decided to pursue it even more. I studied, worked hard and was dedicated to learning more as I knew I wanted to help people change their lives. I realized how important a healthy lifestyle is to your mental health.

Do you fi nd that motivation still comes and goes? If so, how do you get back on track?

Yes, of course there are some days I just don’t feel like training and that’s ok. I know it’s my body telling me I need a rest! I know tomorrow is another day to start again.

My kids get me back on track. I know I have to keep up with their energy levels, but I have a clear goal with my health and fi tness.

How do you know

I studied, worked what diet and exercise hard and was works best for each dedicated to learning individual? What have more as I knew I you tried that you wanted to help people didn’t enjoy? change their lives. I Everyone’s diet and realized how important training is different, it a healthy lifestyle is to truly depends on their your mental health. lifestyle as to what works best! To be honest I haven't really tried too many of those fad diets but I have seen plenty of my friends try them. My thoughts are they are a quick fi x and many times people revert back to their old tendencies. My program works on a complete lifestyle

change for the body and mind.

Describe what mental health benefits can result from exercise?

The mental health benefits are endless, it can relieve stress, anxiety, increases serotonin which is the hormone which stabilizes mood and feelings. Helps you sleep better also which will help with general well-being.

How much exercise is necessary to derive these benefits?

As much as the individual wants, there is no recommended amount. It’s hard to say as everyone’s mental health is different. Exercise can be used to switch the brain off from everyday stresses and concertante on the movement instead.

How else can we encourage people to be more physically active?

There are plenty of ways to become more physically active, even just start off with a walk a few times a week with your family, get outdoors and do all the fun things like kayaking or outdoor sports. Make plans with your friends to keep yourself accountable, join a gym or fitness facility.

What advice would you have for someone that wants to get into exercise for their mental health?

Do exercise which you enjoy and you look forward to rather than something that you don’t like. So if you don’t like cardio then a weights program may be something that helps you stay consistent. I myself don’t like burpees and if someone told me I had to do them I would make up every excuse not to exercise. Training with friends can be another good thing for mental health as you can keep each other accountable as well as enjoying social time.

We are trying to get people to start doing something TODAY, and your words may just help them do that. What would be an experience from your own training that you think people could learn from? It may be challenging at the beginning but the more you look after your body the easier it will become..

You are the only one who can look a er it. I’ve had to look a er my kids and in order to consistency is so important, set a goal, and make your health a do that I have to look priority. You are a er myself. the only one who can look after it. I’ve had to look after my kids and in order to do that I have to look after myself.

What do your customers say?

For over 10 years I had neglected my physical and mental health. Alcohol and poor food choices controlled my life. I felt depressed, insecure, anxious and not myself. I felt like a shell of myself. Six months ago I met Rachel. She helped me change my entire lifestyle but what’s even more amazing is that she gave me my life back. In the past six months I have completely cut out alcohol and sugar. I’ve lost over 19kgs. My mental health is the best it’s ever been. Rach, I can’t thank you enough for helping me (also Patty lols). - Nicci Seccombe

How can we get in touch?

Follow me on social media rahellaw Or contact my mobile number 0413012554 Anytime fitness Toormina 0433 922 911

LIFELINE

NORTH COAST

Focus cha ed with Angela Martin from LIFELINE NORTH COAST to find out more about this great local resource and what services they o er

Supporting our community since 1987. Our expert knowledge in counselling provides our community in crisis with support and strength regardless of underlying issues they face. As a service-based organisation, we offer National telephone crisis support (13 11 14), a range of accredited workplace training, community engagement and awareness programs such as:

GambleAware

We are the North Coast Provider of GambleAware from Tweed Heads down to Laurieton – we have a dedicated local team that provide information on how to gamble safely, plus free confidential support for anyone affected by gambling. A healthy approach means having balance and we can help you find it. If you’re impacted by someone’s gambling – we’re right here for you.

Training and Workshops

Lifeline North Coast delivers a wide range of training courses to corporate businesses and community groups across the North Coast of NSW. Our dedicated training programs are facilitated by accredited trainers who work with participants to promote an inclusive culture or workplace that destigmatises mental health issues and encourages help-seeking.

Crisis support training

Learn how to listen and support callers to our 13 11 14 Crisis Support Line.

Mental health and wellbeing training

Our comprehensive mental health and wellbeing training will equip you to support yourself and others.

Lifeline Crisis phone line 13 11 14

Every 30 seconds, a person in Australia reaches out to Lifeline for help. Lifeline North Coast is part of a national charity, providing local support. The Lifeline Crisis Phone Line is available to anyone experience emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

Lifeline exists so that no person must face their darkest moments alone. Fundraising /Host your own event – Its now easy to set up your own fundraising page where you can direct your donations on our easy-to-use website.

Need assistance? We have a dedicated team to help you create a successful fundraising event and we offer support and services to assist you with your goals. Contact the Communications Department and speak to Angela Martin, to find out how you can make a difference in your community today. Shop at Lifeline – Now with five Lifeline shop retail outlets across Grafton, Coffs Harbour, Toormina, and Nambucca Valley, they are a great way to shop sustainably. We pride ourselves on curating a wide range of high-quality second-hand and new fashion and homewares and presenting fresh creative retail spaces. Every purchase from our stores helps to fund Lifeline’s crisis support line (13 11 14) and our Community Support programs.

Volunteer with us – it’s a rewarding experience

At Lifeline North Coast, we are lucky to be supported by some incredible volunteers who make our services possible. That said, there’s always room for new volunteers, so if you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. As well as helping us care for people in our community, you’ll meet new people and even learn new skills. Not to mention have fun along the way!

What kind of things do volunteers do?

Our policy is to match people to suitable roles rather than the other way around. Here’s an overview of some areas where volunteers help. • Telephone Crisis Supporter • Fundraising & Special Events. • Retail shop, fashion curators and Warehouse assistants

EVERY dollar you direct to this platform is invested directly back into our local community that spans the Clarence Valley down to the Nambucca Valley. You are making a di erence and saving local lives.

LIFELINE

NORTH COAST'S

COUNTDOWN TO s as

HEALTH & WELLBEING TIPS

The Christmas season is meant to be a time of joy, but for many people it can be a time ofstress, anxiety, disappointment, or loneliness. Christmas comes with high expectations of perfect, happy families enjoying lavish celebrations and gifts, but not all of us are able to live up to these ideals.

For those who have recently lost a loved one, Christmas can intensify feelings of grief and sadness.

Some people experience feelings of isolation, financial pressures or increased family conflict that can make this a very stressful time of year.

The team at Lifeline North Coast share some tips to help manage stress and anxiety during this festive season.

Managing your money

Is the festive season a burden on your wallet? Here are some suggestions for reducing yourfinancial stress during the silly season: • Be aware of what is causing you financial stress: Buying gifts, attending social events can be expensive. Plan ways to reduce your spending in advance – you could suggest to your family and friends that you only buy gifts for the kids or organise a ‘Secret Santa’ among the adults. Set a budget and stick to it. • Be creative and find low-cost ways to have fun.Don’t let money cut you off from your family and friends. If you can’t afford expensive restaurant meals or cocktail catch-ups, organise a BBQ in the park or a party at home where everyone brings a plate of food.

Dealing with family tension

Just because you’re related doesn’t mean your family members will all get along. Split families, blended families and unresolved conflicts may contribute to Christmas anxiety. Family and relationship problems can be a trigger for anxiety.

Here are some ideas for getting through:

• Set realistic expectations. Christmas might not be the fabulous family reunion you hoped for. Plan how you will manage any feelings of anxiety or depressionthat may arise. • Put the kids first. If you have children, consider putting aside ongoing adult conflicts in their interest. Think about Christmas as a day for the kids and focus on enabling their happiness. • Drink in moderation. It may be tempting to drink too much during the festive period, but alcohol can contribute to stress, anxiety, and depression. Alcohol may be a problem if you’re drinking to cope. Or if you are dealing with family or friends that drink too much, If possible, try and avoid events or situations where family members may become agitated after drinking alcohol. • Avoid known triggers. If your family has a history of arguing over a certain topic, don’t bring it up.

Managing loneliness

If you find yourself isolated or grieving a loved one over the Christmas period, there are ways to manage your loneliness: • Connect with friends and family. Even if you’re separated by distance, you can stay in touch with loved ones online or by phone. • Volunteer. Why not lend a hand and volunteer over the holidays? Volunteering is a way to connect with others, boost your selfesteem, and bring joy to people who are less fortunate. Consider offering to help serve dinner at a soup kitchen, bring gifts to a children's hospital, or visit lonely residents at a nursing home. • Attend community events. Find out what’s on locally and get involved. Whether it’s Christmas carols or local markets, getting out and about can help relieve loneliness. • Make plans for Christmas Day.Develop a plan to avoid feeling depressed or stressed on the day. Perhaps make yourself a special breakfast, buy yourself a gift in advance so that you can enjoy on the day, attend a local church service, or take a stroll through the local park to give yourself a treat. • Reach out to other people. Is there anyone else you know in your neighbourhood or friends circle that are going to be on their own over the holidays? If so, why not contact them and suggest sharing a plate on the day together. Need more help? At Lifeline North Coast we encourage any person who is experiencing emotional distress, contemplating suicide, or caring for someone in crisis to call 13 11 14.

The phone line is available 7 days a week 24 hours a day and is free to anyone who calls.

INTRODUCING OUR LIFELINE

NORTH COAST'S a a s

Being a Lifeline North Coast Ambassador is an important role in our North Coast community. Our local Ambassadors are passionate about suicide prevention and supporting mental health, they undertake community engagement activities and participate in Lifeline North Coast events and initiatives. This helps to raise awareness of our services and encourages open and responsible discussion about mental health and suicide.

TONY JUDGE Why did you apply to become an Ambassador for Lifeline North Coast?

Lifeline is an important part of my life. I have been a telephone crisis supporter for 5 years. Since joining Lifeline I have seen the immense difference that it makes to the lives of people who are suffering distress. I would like to do as much as I can to support the work that Lifeline does and to help it grow. It is so important that we continue to work towards the prevention of suicide and provide the support that is so deeply needed by people who are facing a tough time in their life.

What does being an Ambassador mean

to you? I am honoured to be offered the opportunity to be an ambassador for Lifeline. I am looking forward to the opportunity to represent Lifeline, to explain and publicise the work that we do and to highlight the importance of that work in preventing suicide and dealing with distress. I am very aware that I will need to represent the values of Lifeline – compassion, connection, and a commitment to help.

During your time as an ambassador, what

would you like to achieve? I would like to contribute to a greater level of understanding of the work that Lifeline does. I would like to help to translate that improved understanding into a greater level of community engagement and to encourage others to consider taking up the role of crisis supporter.

What would you say to encourage someone

to reach out for help? No matter how desperate things become, take the opportunity to ask for help and share how you feel. Find people who listen and people you can trust with your thoughts and feelings. One of the great benefi ts of Lifeline is that it is an anonymous, confi dential call service. Many people feel more comfortable opening up in that setting.

SAMANTHA DAWSON Why did you apply to become an

Ambassador for Lifeline? I believe this will be an amazing opportunity to extend my volunteer work in supporting the LGBTIQ area as my current role is coordinating PFLAG here on the Coffs Coast. I am passionate about helping families as I have a gay son and knew how hard it was to navigate when I arrived here 12 years ago and there weren’t any support networks readily available.

What does being an Ambassador mean to

you? It means being able to show how much Lifeline is important for the LGBTIQ community and to be able to easily cross over what I do with the services offered that truly help the people I engage with.

During your time as an ambassador, what

would you like to achieve? I hope to bring further awareness to how much we need to support these regional families. I already write monthly articles in Focus magazine drawing attention to real issues that LGBTIQ families face from “coming out” to homophobia, transphobia and try to shine a light on people's attitudes and beliefs by dispelling age-old myths and prejudice. I was very active and happy to be interviewed on TV and radio when the Marriage Equality debate was in full swing and held an 80 strong event at Supply with all suppliers in the wedding industry for the YES vote.

What would you say to encourage someone

to reach out for help? I would make sure I listened and asked the right questions and then encouraged them to seek further help with the appropriate service. I am currently learning all the services via my Cert IV in Mental Health course which I'm really enjoying, and I am doing online around my full-time job at Focus Magazine.

“Sam and Tony play a critical role in destigmatising suicide and mental health issues in the community, and they assist in showing that mental illness and suicidal thoughts don’t discriminate between social status, age, race, gender or any other demographic. Anyone can be affected, at any stage of life, stigma is still one of the main barriers for people seeking or accepting help for a mental illness or suicidal thoughts. Our carefully chosen Ambassadors will help us spread our message of building a more resilient suicide-free community.”

Angela Martin Communications and Community Engagement Manager for Lifeline North Coast.

To express your interest in becoming an ambassador please email angela.martin@lifeline. org.au to fi ll out an online form.

Adele se

JACKSON WALSH

Adele House is a men’s rehabilitation centre that has recently moved into a new purposebuilt facility at Bucca. e new premises is set on a beautiful 900 acres and includes a training farm where clients can access work skills training and education programs.

Hey Jackson, Tell us about your role at Adele house and how long have you been a part of the PAYCE Foundation?

I am the Centre Manager of Adele’s 40-Bed residential rehabilitation facility located at Bucca, I have been in the role for three years. Adele offers rehabilitation for men over the age of 18 who have substance use issues that they wish to address. I oversee the day to day running of the facility and the delivery of the rehabilitation program along with stakeholder management, compliance and implementation of the Salvation Army’s Drug and Alcohol Group Work Program – ‘Foundations’.

When I originally came to Adele House, we were located at Moonee Beach in a facility which essentially was a large house that had evolved over the years to cater for 20 clients. I have overseen our migration to a $10.6 million, purpose built, state of the art facility here at Bucca. This was fi nanced through a joint venture between the PAYCE Foundation and the State Government.

We employ 24 staff in a variety of roles: Case Workers, Support Workers, Administration and Catering. We are a 24/7 facility.

For our readers who may be unsure what Adele House and the Payce Foundation are, can you give us a bit of background info?

Adele House originally started as a supported accommodation service for clients ‘post detox’ in Sydney in 1984. It gradually evolved into a residential rehabilitation facility in Toongabbie. In 2005 a property was set up at Moonee Beach with the idea of having a facility away from the bustle of Sydney for the clients to have a safe, rural space to

When I originally undergo treatment. came to Adele When a partnership was House, we were located established with the at Moonee Beach in a PAYCE Foundation the facility which essentially was a large house that had evolved vision for the property at Bucca along with the Training Farm and Rehabilitation Centre over the years to cater was developed and for 20 clients. undertaken. The PAYCE Foundation was founded in 2016 to build on the long philanthropic tradition of leading property developer PAYCE. PAYCE look to establish long term partnerships

with a range of charities and community organizations addressing the causes and effects of disadvantage and misfortune to ensure these are not determinants of anyone’s quality of life.

PAYCE have a range of focus areas: Addiction, Domestic and Family Violence, Homelessness and Social Isolation, Mental Health and Disability Youth at risk. Adele House and PAYCE have had an ongoing partnership for over 10 years.

What are some of the programs you run and what opportunities do you offer people who may need it?

Adele House, as part of their service delivery contract with the Salvation Army, delivers the newly developed ‘Foundations’ program which is being rolled out at all Salvation Army Recovery Services throughout Australia. It is an evidence based, contemporary and engaging group work program which seeks to provide hope, empowerment and choice to people with substance use issues. The aim of the program is to prepare and support clients to reach their full potential through sustainable long-term behavioural change.

Our holistic program covers a range of content to target building personal resilience: managing triggers and recovery hazards, relapse prevention, building positive social identities, forming community connections,

e aim of the program is to prepare and support clients to reach their full potential through sustainable long- moving toward independent living, having term behavioural healthy relationships, developing spirituality, change. meaning in life and compassion. Our Model is ‘client-centred’: the goals of the admission are set by the client; ‘trauma informed’: the clients are treated with dignity and respect and they are encouraged to reciprocate; and underpinned by a ‘harm minimization’ approach ensuring that the overall harms of alcohol and drug use, if not eradicated, are reduced.

Continued over...

Adele se

Can you tell us about the Adele training farm?

Adele Training Farm is a social enterprise including a blueberry/blackberry farm and work skills centre. It provides training and employment opportunities to clients of Adele House, with income generated supporting Adele House operations.

Clients are offered job training and education programs to ensure they are well equipped to reintegrate in the community.

Adele Training Farm is a registered charity, its vision supports two key principles of the PAYCE Foundation’s approach to philanthropy: long term self-sustainability for charities through the generation of social enterprise revenue and support and upskilling of disadvantaged members of the community to ensure they are job-ready and able to become healthy, productive and positive members of our community.

The Salvation Army plays a big part in Adele House. What is it like having such a wonderful organization behind you?

Entering a Service Contract with the Salvation Army has allowed Adele House to benefit from the extensive resources and experience the Army has across its entire Social Mission. It links Adele House with an Australia wide network of ancillary services such as Employment Services, Family and Domestic Violence Programs, Chaplaincy, local Corps and Family Stores, Homelessness Services and Emergency Relief Services. Our clients volunteer at the local Salvation Army’s Family Store, attend the local Chapel Services and volunteered as part of the Bushfire Relief Support offered by the Salvation Army in the bushfires of two years ago.

There has also been great benefit for Adele House in the connection with the levels of policy, governance, training and accreditation that being aligned with the Salvation Army offers. The Army also has extensive ‘back of house’ services such as Payroll, HR, Finance, Employee Assistance Program, Work Health & Safety Systems, IT, Fleet Management and Legal resources that have helped streamline our operation.

Operating since 1984, how has Adele House changed in that time?

the Salvation

Army has allowed Adele House to benefit from the extensive resources and experience the Army has across its entire Social Mission.

Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centres have undergone significant changes since 1984 and Adele has transformed along with the overall industry. Four clients to a room, often in bunkbeds, two phone calls a week, TV viewing restricted, all aspects of the program being mandatory, minimal case management or structured program delivery, no access to computers and a ‘one size fits all’ total abstinence approach was the norm.

Adele House has undergone a major change in how our program is delivered, a structured harm-minimization approach, clients have access to computers, mobile phones and Wi-Fi. The implementation of the Adele Training Farm ‘Work Skills

Program’ has permitted us to incorporate education, training and paid employment into our Program to better prepare our clients for life beyond rehabilitation.

Adele House has seen some exciting upgrades over the past year. What has been done and how will it assist in the way you operate?

Just over a year ago we moved into our new facility set on 900 acres at Bucca where we share the property with the Adele Training Farm. It was opened by the then Treasurer, Dominic Perrottet,, in October 2020. The new facility comprises a commercial kitchen, a tech hub, well-appointed group rooms and conference areas with smart boards, a spacious dining room, pool, steam room, gym, vegetable garden, herb garden,

a games room, three laundries, a barbecue area and four separate lounge rooms in the Accommodation Block. The space and the outlook of the new facility allows our clients and staff to feel valued and well-resourced to undertake the recovery journey that Adele House offers. Our clients take pride in the environment and are actively involved in the day to day running and upkeep of the facility. The new facility is conducive to both the client’s well-being, e space and engagement and an improved retention and the outlook of completion rate. the new facility I should also mention that we have a allows our clients and sta to feel valued and well-resourced to Development Approval for the construction of a 20 bed Women’s Facility on the former site we were located on at Moonee Beach. We are in the process of seeking funding to facilitate undertake the the construction. recovery journey that Where can we find out more about Adele Adele House o ers. House? By visiting out website https://adelehouse. org/. Our Admissions Team can be contacted on 1300 286693. I should also mention that we have a Development Approval for the construction of a 20 bed Women’s Facility on the former site we were located on at Moonee Beach. We are in the process of seeking funding to facilitate the construction.

Kiah

BOWEN

DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE COORDINATOR

Kiah Bowen is the Region Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator for the Northern Region at the NSW Police Force. She is incredibly passionate about her role and is always on a mission to raise awareness on the subject. We spoke to her about some of the initiatives she’s been working on, as well as some advice on dealing with this issue in our community.

Hi Kiah. Can you tell us about your role with the NSW Police Force?

My role is the Region Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator for Northern Region. I cover the five police districts stretching between Tweed Heads and Bulahdelah. My role is different every day – it could be working on domestic and family violence strategy and policy improvements, supporting local domestic violence committee events and projects, supporting domestic violence training and education of frontline police, creating community awareness campaigns, or representing NSWPF on a variety of meetings and forums. It is rewarding to connect with people across the entire North Coast with a passion for the domestic and family violence space and hear stories of when our work has made a positive difference to the lives of others.

What are some of the community projects you’ve been part of in that role?

I am lucky to work alongside some incredibly motivated committees across the North Coast and have assisted with many domestic violence awareness initiatives over the last two years including the creation of street banners, coffee cups, stickers, posters, graphics for buses, lip balms, Z cards, coasters, T-shirts, umbrellas and more! Some notable highlights for me have been my involvement in the Rotary “Say No to Domestic Violence” campaign, representing NSW Police on various discussion panels and working groups, and assisting with awareness events like the 16 Days of Activism. I also assisted with the organising of the Lovebites Ball held at the C.ex Coffs earlier this year (despite being very nervous to be the MC)!

You are most known for your work in relation to the Lovebites program, can

you explain what this program is about?

I am currently the project lead for the North Coast Lovebites Expansion Strategy, which aims to have the Lovebites respectful relationships program running in all local high schools by the end of 2022. I am so passionate about this program as it aims to equip young people with the knowledge of what a respectful relationship looks like, what red flags in a relationship look like and what the definitions of domestic and family violence and consent are. It is just so important that we invest as a community in early intervention education with a view of supporting our young people to make the right choices for themselves and have relationships free from violence and abuse.

You’re currently working on Ball Against Domestic Violence, can you tell us all about it and how people can get involved?

I am really excited to have partnered with Rob Linton from North Coast Basketball and Cass Wilson from Uniting to create this 3x3 Hustle basketball charity event for our community. Not only will it be a well-deserved fun day for our local emergency services entry section, who have worked tirelessly during a tough couple of years, but we have expanded the event to include kids’ sections and open sections. The event will be held at SportzCentral Stadium on Bray Street on Saturday December 18th. We are still looking for more team entries, so please head to the 3x3 Hustle website for more information or come down on the day to support. We will have a community BBQ, emergency services vehicles in attendance and a sports raffle!

I want to take What will funds raised this opportunity from this event go to remind the Co s towards? Coast community that The proceeds from the domestic and family Ball Against Domestic violence is a crime. We Violence event will be want people to report early, and report o en. I urge Co s Coast residents to call police donated to the Warrina Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services who provide a variety of support if you see, hear, suspect services including a or are experiencing women’s and children’s domestic violence. refuge, housing/outreach support, women’s domestic violence and court advocacy service, case management, specialist DFV counselling and Men’s Behaviour change programs.

Creating awareness and an open dialogue around domestic and family violence is obviously very important, how does talking about the topic create positive change in the community or for those affected?

We know that domestic and family violence does not discriminate, it can occur across all sectors and groups within our community. We also know that it remains an under-reported crime, and that it is complex in nature. Some victims do not want to end their relationships, they just want the violence to stop. Others require intervention from police and other agencies to assist them to leave. I truly hope that through our local domestic violence initiatives, like the Ball Against Domestic Violence, that conversations around the topics are both started and continued throughout the community. It should no longer be a topic that “stays behind closed doors”. It is everyone’s business – there is no excuse for abuse in our community!

What are some common misconceptions when it comes to domestic violence?

Some people do not recognise that they are in an unhealthy or abusive relationship as it may not include physical violence. Our domestic violence awareness campaigns aim to educate the community about the non-physical forms of domestic violence as well as the fact that it can occur across more relationship types than the standard intimate partner definition – for example LGBTIQ couples, long term residents in a residential facility, carers, or Aboriginal extended family/kin. Additionally, the term “coercive control” has received a lot of media attention in the last year, which refers to a pattern of abusive behaviours that are used to cause fear and/or control a person or situation. It can include social, financial, psychological, spiritual, reproductive, or technology-facilitated abuse.

What advice would you give to someone experiencing or observing signs of domestic violence or wanting access to some help or advice?

I want to take this opportunity to remind the Coffs Coast community that domestic and family violence is a crime. We want people to report early, and report often. I urge Coffs Coast residents to call police if you see, hear, suspect or are experiencing domestic violence – 000 for emergencies, or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 for non-urgent information. There is also 1800 RESPECT (1800 737732) a 24-hour confidential counselling support service who can offer support and connect you with local support services if you wish.

h as

Beyond the Surface Counselling provides a creative, professional, empathetic, inclusive, and diverse range of interventions to assist families and children to enhance and empower their lives, fulfill their potential with solutionfocused approaches to change in a safe and healthy environment.

What services does

your business offer?

In my experience, the most effective ways of working with families and children are through activities and therapeutic approaches that help families and children talk about and work through challenging problems and facilitate change. I am passionate about sharing creative therapeutic interventions that bring families and children hope, self-understanding, understanding of others, and ideas about how they want to interact in the world.

I have found all families have challenges and problems. Most families can solve these problems by seeking advice from family, friends or accessing reliable and relevant information; however, some families get stuck and are unsure what to do next.

Why is being mentally healthy so important?

Mental health has many influences; biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors that interact in complex ways. It affects everything we feel, think about, and act emotionally, psychologically, and socially. Healthy mental wellbeing helps manage emotions, respond to stress, and our general daily outlook on life. Having positive mental health assists with resilience, our relationships with others and guides us to make healthy choices. Mental wellbeing is important at every stage, from prenatal development, infancy, childhood, adolescence, early and middle adulthood, and late adulthood.

Who do you find presents to you?

I predominantly work with families and children struggling with reduced motivation, stress, anxiety, frustration, dealing with tricky social situations, trauma, and grief and loss. They may be surviving trauma, family violence, separation/divorce, and other losses where feelings of powerlessness, hopelessness, sadness, and anger become unwelcome companions. Recently there has been an increase in families seeking help for children with more worries, fears, and anxiety.

I predominantly work with families and children struggling with reduced motivation, stress, anxiety, frustration, dealing with tricky social situations, trauma, and grief and loss.

How do people access your services?

There are a few ways to access Beyond the Surface Counselling. People have accessed the service from recommendations from family or friends, which means you can self-refer. Another health care provider may recommend counselling for you and provide you with a referral. I envisage a world where all people have access to information and interventions that can assist them in creating a healthy physical and psychological life for themselves and those around them.

What are the benefits of therapy?

Therapeutic counselling helps you address your problems positively by clarifying the issues, exploring options, developing strategies, and increasing self-awareness. It involves gaining new knowledge and skills about particular challenges you may be having. Counselling can also promote greater selfesteem, assertiveness and provide you with the ability to set personal boundaries.

Therapeutic counselling with children looks very different. Therapeutic play benefits and supports families and children in expressing their emotions, improving their communication, and solving problems. From the first counselling session, you will find many take-home strategies and activities that capitalise on your children’s strengths and natural ability to express their feelings and resolve conflicts.

What different kinds of therapy do you offer?

Therapeutic approaches are very individual to each family and children; one therapy does not fit all. ‘Talk therapies’ to understand the problem may be effective with adults, but we need to consider alternative interventions when engaging with children. Providing children with opportunities to voice their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through play is ideal. Therapeutic play enables children to access and process their own emotions and articulate their worries, fears, and problems, assisting them in exploring feelings and dealing with unresolved trauma. Through play, children can learn coping skills and how to redirect unhelpful or inappropriate behaviours. Methods and approaches in my therapeutic practices include Family Counselling, Compassion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Creative and Expressive Art Therapy, and Therapeutic Story Telling.

We have come a long way in realising how important looking after our mental health is. How have you seen these changes?

As a society, there have been significant changes in people’s attitudes to mental health. We are becoming more accepting, supportive, open, and communicative about our daily mental health challenges and struggles. People are more aware of mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. We are seeing courageous people confidently speaking out and sharing their difficulties and past traumas. I have seen the mental wellbeing benefits of health professionals working together as a multidisciplinary team in providing comprehensive and integrated care to people in need.

How do people remove the stigma around

I have seen the mental getting mental health treatments? wellbeing benefits of I feel we all have a responsibility to raise health professionals our voices against stigmatising mental health working together as treatments. Raising awareness by having open, a multidisciplinary honest conversations, being conscious of team in providing the language we use, encouraging others to comprehensive and think about both physical and psychological integrated care to people in need. health as comparable, being compassionate to ourselves and others, becoming empowered rather than shamed and, if safe to do so, call out stigmatising behaviours.

What advice do you have for someone who would like to seek help but feels embarrassed or feels their situations or problems are not significant enough?

Making the first counselling appointment may feel embarrassing and well out of your comfort zone. Firstly I would like to congratulate you for taking charge of your wellbeing and being proactive in maintaining your health. Counselling is all about telling your story, being actively listened to, and gaining help to work through your problem. All problems are acknowledged and listened to with patience, empathy, compassion, and non-judgmentally. The process of being vulnerable and speaking our truth is helpful in all situations we may find challenging.

How can we get in touch?

Contact me at Beyond the Surface Counselling on 0400 001 466. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

COFFS COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE Summer

SKILLS

Are you:

• Aged 16 to 24 • Not at school •Living /working in NSW • Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident or humanitarian visa holder

Summer Skills supports young people aged 16-24. Choose from a widerange of FREE. short course from Industries where there are plenty of jobs available such as hospitality, construction, Sport & recreation, business and digital.

Co s Coast Community College is a notfor-profit Registered Training Organisation delivering Nationally Recognised Training and leisure programmes to residents of the Co s Harbour region in NSW since 1995.

We pride ourselves on the quality of adult education and training courses which we deliver, and are recognised locally as a quality provider. The College is delighted to be offering fee-free courses for 16-24 year old school leavers. Summer skills is a NSW Government initiative aimed at learning skills for in-demand jobs, building resumes and helping school leavers plan their future. This is the perfect opportunity for young people in this area to gain valuable skills over summer and be a step ahead for employment or further study. To be eligible you must be 16-24 years old and have left school, living or working in NSW, Australian / New Zealand citizen or Humanitarian visa holder. Participants need to be registered by 31st December and courses must be completed by April 2022. The college is offering short courses in hospitality, disability support work, retail and customer service. The college manager and training team have years of local knowledge and have hand selected courses that will meet industry demand. Learn from industry experts in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. From one day courses to a week of classroom learning. Be one step ahead of others looking to get into further study or jobs. These places would also be beneficial for those having a gap year and moving away to have job skills already in place. To find out more information visit the summer skills website education.nsw.gov.au/skillsnsw/skills-initiatives/summerskills#courses or call the friendly team at the College on

02 6652 5378.