A group known as Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers has been identified as having many challenges as they face the possibility of aged care. Forced into institutional and out-of-home care as children, many experienced significant physical and emotional trauma that can still impact them today. We respect that not everyone will identify with the terminology ‘Forgotten Australians’.

When carers understand trauma, they can recognise signs, know the impact of triggers, and reduce the risk of re-traumatisation. In fact, understanding the impact of trauma is beneficial to us all.

Helping Hand has developed several free training resources regarding trauma and trauma aware care, in conjunction with Flinders University, Relationships Australia and, most importantly, people with lived experience.

Host Kate Holland and Chelsea Lewis, Manager Engagement and Partnerships at Helping Hand, are joined in this episode of Age Old Problems: New Aged Care by Jan Schaffarz, who identifies as a Forgotten Australian. Her involvement in the latest training program was invaluable as is her contribution to this podcast.

Listening to this episode will give you an insight into:

• The traumatic experiences of Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers
• Helping Hand’s commitment to trauma-aware care, including the provision of free online training resources
• Why trauma aware care is so important to people with a background of trauma
• How people with a background of trauma would like to be treated in aged care
• Trust building and how that takes time
• Verification for residential care homes via Helping Hand’s training

PLEASE NOTE: Hearing stories of trauma can trigger strong emotions or cause us to recognise lived experience within our own family and community. Listen with care and seek help if you need it.

Useful Resources:

• Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers on Helping Hand's website
• Helping Hand's phone number – 1300 653 600
• Trauma Training – an introduction to understanding the impacts of childhood trauma for people now entering aged care
• Sensitive Intake Conversations Training – a course that will assist aged care professionals to engage in respectful and inclusive conversations with older adults who have a history of trauma
• The Real Care Toolkit – a ten-step program for implementing trauma aware, healing informed aged care for Forgotten Australians and Care Leavers

Episode hosted by Kate Holland

Episode recorded and edited by Drew Radford

REMEMBER: You understand your needs better than anyone. Take the time to discuss them with one of our friendly team members to ensure the care you get is the right fit for you.