COVID-19 Resources
To live in the world is to adapt constantly. Since the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, we have suddenly been forced to adapt to the ‘new normal’: work-from-home setting, parents home-schooling their children in a new blended learning setting, lockdown and quarantine, and the wearing of face mask. COVID-19 affected our lives in so many ways and continues to be a challenging and uncertain time for everyone. There is a range of information and various support services available to assist you manage your health and wellbeing.
Victorian Government COVID-19 advice
The Victorian Government coronavirus web page continues to have comprehensive information around protecting yourself and thos most at risk against COVID, supports available inlcuding specific information for seniors, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, people living with disability and children. The website also has translated information about COVID-19. Click here for the Victorian Government's coronavirus information https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/
Mental health support
Mental health support with trained counsellors is available over the phone, online or via telephone support services. The Victorian State Government website lists a number of tips and resources that are available.
Here are some useful contact numbers and websites to consider:
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636, beyondblue.org.au
- Lifeline: 13 11 14, lifeline.org.au
- Headspace: 1800 650 893 for 12-25 year olds, family and friends, headspace.org.au
- Kid’s Helpline: 1800 551 800, https://kidshelpline.com.au/ for children from age 5 up
- Mensline: 1300 78 99 78, mensline.org.au
- Safe Steps: 1800 015 188 or 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 for support to people impacted by domestic and family violence, safesteps.org.au
An online support forum, a podcast or webchat may be what suits you best. Here are a few links that may be helpful.
- The Beyond Blue Coping During the Coronavirus Outbreak forum
- The Black Dog Institute podcasts
- Lifeline Holding on to Hope podcasts
- Kids Helpline webchat counselling
Financial support and emergency relief
Find out about the financial support and emergency relief available to people affected by COVID-19 by clicking here.
Ask Izzy
Ask Izzy is a website that connects people in need with housing, a meal, money help, family violence support, counselling and much more. It is free and anonymous, with thousands of services listed across Australia. And if you’re on the Telstra or Vodafone mobile networks, you can access Ask Izzy on your phone even if you don’t have credit or access to wifi. For more information, click here.
In your neighbourhood
Your local council will have a range of professional support services for your neighbourhood. The services may range from food relief and emergency pet food for people isolating, to mental health and family support. Visit your local government’s website and search for COVID-19 support.
Remember, support is out there in many different ways and through a range of organisations. If you are struggling to find the support you need, please contact your Unison Place Manager. We are here to help.