Look out for friends, family & colleagues
VU Clinical Psychologist Alana Howells was assistant manager of an Emergency Recovery Team providing psychological first aid after disasters, including the Black Saturday bushfires. She says:
“Immediately during and after such a disaster, people need to take care of their basic needs, such as trying to get enough rest and eating well. Social support is also important, as it is easy for many people to withdraw and become disconnected, but sometimes practical support is the most important way to show someone that you care.”
Take the time to check on the wellbeing of your friends, family, colleagues and children, who may have been affected by these traumatic events. For some great tips on how to approach sensitive conversions, and loads of resources visit the RU OK? website.
Business for Bushfire Recovery program
VU has made a pledge to the State Government, Business for Bushfire Recovery program to hold meetings, events or conferences in regional areas. The initiative was announced on 6 Jan by the Premier and Minister for Tourism, Major Events and Sport. Planning business events and holidays in regional areas are important to ensure the continued economic viability of our regional areas affected by bushfires.
Donations to support recovery efforts
Monetary donations are the most appropriate way to support those impacted by the bushfires. Donations of goods are currently not being requested. If you are able to donate, please be wary of potential scammers and support charities with a focus on recovery such as:
Wall of Thanks & Support
A Wall of Thanks & Support is now up on each of our campuses. Staff and students are invited to use this space to leave messages of support to all those impacted by bushfires and thank those individuals, groups and organisations who are leading the response.
You can leave your message of support at the following locations:
- Footscray Park – M126-M127 (Glass walls)
- Footscray Nicholson – Building T – T131 (Side entrance of VUHQ)
- Sunshine –– Building C (Entrance to Trades woodwork area)
- St Albans– 4N 141 (Glass wall outside VUHQ)
- Werribee – 1B101 (Glass wall inside VUHQ)
- City Queen – Learning Hub, Level 2, 295 Queen Street
- City Flinders – Student Lounge, Level 9, 300 Flinders Street
- City King – Level 2 2.009 (VUHQ Glass Front).