The BushED Mothers in Arms (MIA) Program aims to empower and support mothers in remote communities, enhancing their independence and improving their quality of life during the pre- and post-natal periods.
In 2023/2024, the program expanded to support 160 mothers. We have 6 fully trained “Buddy Mums” with Mental Health First Aid certificates, and 3 more are currently in training. Additionally, mothers have access to qualified counselors provided by third-party organizations for extended needs. We are actively recruiting more mothers to join the Buddy Mums team.
Our office also maintains regular contact with Mums and Buddy Mums, offering one-on-one support and connecting them with additional BushED resources or external services as needed. These calls have reinforced the value of BushED to our families.
We currently collaborate with 64 referring agencies across Queensland, including Queensland Health, mothers’ groups, and Family Hubs.
In the past year, we have seen a significant increase in requests for support, particularly in the last six months. Financial pressures and reduced maternity support services in rural and remote Queensland have driven mothers toward programs like MIA. Our Buddy Mums have been instrumental, applying their skills and knowledge to assist rural mothers. With the support of volunteers and professional bodies, we have developed and documented operational procedures to scale up support to meet rising demand. Securing ongoing funding for the MIA program remains a challenge, which we are addressing through new initiatives and partnerships.
The MIA program is crucial as health services in rural, remote, and isolated areas of Australia have been declining. This includes a shortage of doctors, nurses, and allied health services such as speech therapists, audiologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and psychologists. These services are vital for new mothers, families, and communities. In their absence, accessing healthcare can be both expensive and challenging.
The MIA program offers essential support through Buddy Mums, who provide practical assistance and share their lived experiences. Feedback from mothers using the program highlights the invaluable support and care provided by those with firsthand experience. Our approach is non-judgmental and focused on building confidence. By integrating these strategies into a comprehensive approach, mothers in rural and remote areas will gain the tools, knowledge, and support they need to thrive in rural and remote Australia.
If you are a mum or family and would like access to this service, register here.
If you are in need of urgent support please contact one of the organisations to the right.
Blended Online community MHFA – The Course is aimed at teaching how to provide initial support to adults aged 18-65, who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis. This course has been developed through professionals and people with lived experience of mental health. The Mental Health First Aid Course will be delivered in 2 components: Dates for November 2022 – 11 and 12. The zoom session is over two days – 3 hours per day. Please inform what times suit your community members. After hours also work best for the zoom sessions, something to consider. Priscilla is a passionate Mental Health First Aid Instructor. Having faced depression and mental illness herself, and having lost her brother to depression, she is on a mission to raise Mental Health Awareness and spread the knowledge and life-saving skills of Mental Health First Aid. A Registered Nurse with Intensive/ Critical care background, and Telephone Triage nursing, she is also a Leadership trainer and coach. Find her page on Facebook “The CPR Chick”
Course Information
