Dementia Australia announced the launch of four new Leadership and Practice Change education programs for care workers.
The range of accredited and non-accredited programs is spearheaded by the first ever fully-funded, national 10993NAT Certificate IV in Dementia Practice and will build participants’ leadership skills within the aged and community care sector.
The other courses are Demonstrating Dementia Leadership and Leading Quality Dementia Care with a peer support, knowledge sharing Community of Practice, rounding out the offerings.
Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said these programs will deliver engaging education to build the dementia capability of future leaders in the sector, as well as creating lasting change through leadership and culture change that in turn promotes improved behaviours, attitudes, and care practices for all care workers.
“Strong leadership was recognised as a critical element of sustained practice improvements by the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and in response, also by the Federal Government,” Ms McCabe said.
“And strong leadership in aged care is fundamental to the delivery of high-quality dementia care.
“Our programs provide opportunities for ongoing development and learning pathways for future leaders in the sector.
“With the current shortage of aged care workers, it is crucial that we attract more people to the sector, strengthen the current workforce’s capability and develop meaningful learning pathways.
“We are proud to be leading the charge to improve the dementia capability of the aged care workforce by developing and empowering staff.
“In so doing, we will improve the quality of care provided for all people living with dementia and ensure better outcomes for everyone involved.
“This expansion of our Centre for Dementia Learning’s programs enhances our already comprehensive suite of education programs that are designed to improve the quality of care for people living with dementia.” Ms McCabe said
The four Leadership and Practice Change programs, designed and delivered by Dementia Australia as part of Dementia Training Australia, are funded by the Australian Government.
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.
