Mental health workers are to have a say on workforce reforms with the Department of Health sending out a survey inviting them in public, community and private settings to contribute.
In a statement, the Department said the reforms, recommended by the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, aimed to attract, train, support and retain the workforce needed to provide treatment for people with mental illness or psychological distress.
“The insights of individuals working in the system are critical to drive change and realise the Royal Commission’s vision for reform,” the Department said.
“The data collected in the Survey will help establish a profile of Victoria’s mental health workforce across specialties, settings and locations,” it said.
“The personnel Survey will also provide insights into the experiences of individuals working in the system and how they can be best supported during the reform process.”
The Department said responses from the Survey, as well as the recent August-September mental health workforce census, would help shape the Mental Health and Wellbeing Workforce Strategy, set to be delivered by the end of 2021.
It said the Mental Health Workforce Personnel Survey was open until 15 November and participation was voluntary, anonymous and confidential.
Minister for Mental Health, James Merlino encouraged all staff in the sector to get involved and contribute to the Survey.
“The voice of frontline workers will be vital in transforming our mental health system – we want to hear their frank experiences of working in the sector, so we can build a better-equipped workforce to care for Victorians,” Mr Merlino said.
