Carers to receive first aid training
An Australian first – the Federal Government will provide a one-off $114,000 grant to St John Ambulance to help provide courses for carers in practical life saving first aid.
This could train up to 2,000 carers a year, during the pilot.
The grant will help fund the design and delivery of a specific first aid course for carers by offering flexible practical and online components.
The funding for St John Ambulance is part of the Australian Government’s commitment to carers through the National Respite for Carers Program, which is providing $194 million in 2008-09.
This course is a first step and it will be designed for people voluntarily caring for frail elderly or disabled relatives or friends.
The flexible model would allow carers to take the first aid course using workbooks, a CD-ROM or online, followed by a practical workshop.
Existing respite care programs would allow the carers to take the time to attend the practical one-day workshop.
