Call to Clarify Abuse Support Training

The Australian
April 3, 2013

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/breaking-news/call-to-clarify-abuse-support-training/story-fn3dxiwe-1226611687305

THE peak national body supporting adults abused as children says the royal commission's off to a great start, but is concerned about how well trained its support staff are.

Adults Surviving Child Abuse (ASCA) president Cathy Kezelman says the commission's willingness to communicate and inform while setting reasonable expectations is positive, adding that a very thorough process had been undertaken.

She wants to ensure, however, all support personnel have had adequate training, particularly to prevent victims from being retraumatised.

"It's very important for the health and wellbeing of everyone coming forward, but also for everyone involved in the commission," Dr Kezelman told AAP.

"They're being confronted with tales of extreme horror day in and day out, so their wellbeing and health is absolutely critical."

Counsel assisting the commission Gail Furness SC said on Wednesday the commission will take extensive steps to reduce the stress victims may experience by giving evidence, including having trained counsellors available.

The ASCA has and will continue to advise commissioners as hearings continue, Dr Kezelman said.

Both the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) and the National Association of Community Legal Centres (NACLC) have welcomed the federal government's funding of a legal advisory service for those considering giving evidence to the commission.