The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has called on the media to take care reporting on the Invictus Games and upcoming Remembrance Day activities due to the impact coverage of the events may have on veterans and their families.
In a statement, DVA said reporting on issues such as mental health challenges and suicide rates amongst the veteran community could cause distress to veterans as well as serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) members and their families.
“The DVA requests that Australian media use sensitivity when reporting on the mental health of serving and ex-serving ADF members and include contact details for veteran specific support channels,” the Department said.
It said the Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) was recently relaunched as ‘Open Arms – Veterans and Families Counselling’ after consultation with veterans and veterans’ groups.
“Open Arms is a national mental health service that provides free, confidential counselling and support to former and currently serving ADF members and their families 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” the Department said.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Darren Chester said the rebrand was designed after extensive consultation and feedback from VVCS clients, veterans, staff and Ex-Service Organisations.
“This new name and brand will help promote the service, especially to younger veterans and their families, to ensure more veterans and families know where to gain access to the help they need,” Mr Chester said.
“Along with face-to-face counselling, the service now offers training programs and peer support networks, relationship retreats, group treatment programs and suicide prevention courses.”
Open Arms can be reached on 1800 011 046 and at www.OpenArms.gov.au.
