2011 VTPU/ CPH activities

In 2011, the VTPU organised quarterly meetings with CPHs. These meetings were well attended and provided CPHs with an opportunity to meet other CPHs and VTPU staff, share information/ resources/ ideas, develop networks, and discuss a topic of interest in detail.

Topics covered include:

• An overview of the web-based social networking site NING
• An update on the VTPU study 'development of a consensus among CPHs'
• Brainstorming session on 'orientating new staff to cultural diversity'
• Participating in the national project- Mental Health in Multicultural Australia (MHiMA)

CPHs were also invited to participate in a series of on-line surveys as part of a VTPU project, seeking their views on mental health service provision and the CPH role. The VTPU is currently developing a report based on these findings.

CPHs are often asked for their input from VTPU staff, especially feedback on CALD programs, activities and resources, examples of good practice, gaps within their service, etc.

CPHs are also encouraged to attend VTPU education and training activities which include cultural responsiveness training sessions, seminar series/ case reviews, and journal club sessions.

CPHs are also involved in the VTPUs partnership planning process and secondary consultation service.

The VTPU website is a great resource for CPHs and other mental health staff interested in cultural diversity in the workplace http://www.vtpu.org.au.