The Moree Plains Shire has experienced its fair share of challenges. As a result, a new Recovery Support Group is being established to assist community members know they are not alone and help build their personal capacity to handle the challenges that may lay ahead.
Community members are invited to join the new free Recovery Support Group being launched Tuesday 2 July at the Country Universities Centre (CUC) 21 Auburn St, Moree from 9:30am to 11:30am, or for those with commitments during the day 5:30pm to 7:00pm. Meetings will be held every second Tuesday.
“The Recovery Support Group offers a safe place for people who have been impacted by crime, flooding, drought, COVID-19, or other adverse events to get support from others who have experienced similar situations”, explained Mayor Mark Johnson.
Moree Plains Shire Council’s Community Recovery Officer, Sandy McNaughton, has recognised the opportunity and desire of individuals to draw upon the existing strength of the community to support and empower each other. In response, the Council has partnered with the expertise of the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) and Co-ordinator, Letitia Cross, to facilitate the group.
This will provide an opportunity to expand the impact of adverse events, build some skills and provide a platform for genuine connection with other empathetic community members wanting to see their peers and community thrive.
“There are many people in the community who may be impacted by the same experiences, who may benefit from knowing they are not alone. Story-sharing and networking provides opportunities to build resilience at both individual and community levels.” said Sandy.
RAMHP Coordinator Letitia Cross said “That while this isn’t a therapy group, the intention is for participants to feel supported by others while learning to build a sense of control, resilience, confidence and capacity to move forward through change”.
“This is important as often when we experience significant adverse events, we can feel powerless and out of control, simply by learning new skills and re-framing our thinking, it has been proven that one of the things that can come from adversity is growth and increased capacity to face new challenges,” said Letitia.
The Group will provide a safe, confidential, and comfortable space. There is no obligation to commitment for the long term, as short-term attendance can have people feeling better equipped to face future challenges. However, members may also identify other types of supports, activities, creative or physical options as a part of this process which they would like to engage with that would be beneficial in the future.
Something going on in your part of the region you think people should know about? Send us a news tip or email newsdesk@netimes.com.au.