EDIT: Since this story was published, the toolkit has been updated to include an easy-to-follow guided verification process.

The Real Care Toolkit

The Real Care Toolkit is a program for implementing trauma aware, healing informed aged care for Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers. The toolkit steps aged care providers through a six month program where you can roll out training, embed practice and demonstrate changes so you can seek specialisation verification. Everything is free – training, templates, guidance and is available for you to use as is appropriate to your organisational context.

Having respectful and inclusive conversations with older people from a background of trauma

In September 2024, Helping Hand launched a second training module: Having respectful and inclusive conversations with older people from a background of trauma.

It was developed with Relationships Australia South Australia and older people with lived experience to assist aged care professionals to provide aged care workers with the knowledge and practical skills to navigate the crucial intake process, to prepare for sensitive topics as they arise, and provide continual support and care. This training program is free to access, and will take around one hour to complete.

Evaluation with more than 1100 people who have completed the training shows that 94% of participants report feeling more confident in conducting sensitive intake conversations; and 96% said they will use the learnings in their work.

“I will incorporate this with everyday workload to enable me to capture the right information at the right time for the resident.”
“This training will enhance my ability to provide holistic care for the diverse clients at my organisation.”
“This training has made me more comfortable in having difficult conversations in a sensitive and appropriate manner.”
“It has reminded me to listen and how to help without judgment.”

For more information about our Real Care the Second Time Around project, and access to all resources and online learning materials, visit our webpage.