Using the children and young people’s natural disaster program ‘Stormbirds’ as a basis for connection with children and young people in schools and communities, in impacted areas, gave a voice to the students and an opportunity to acknowledge and explore their experiences. This evidence and research based small group program assists children to make sense of their experiences, adapt to the changes resulting , develop skills and identify support networks going forward.

This presentation will examine how the program was well placed to support in the school and wider community and will outline the positive impact reported by children and families in bushfire impacted areas. It will also highlight some of the challenges encountered and ways forward in offering support in future.

3 x Key Learnings:
Enhanced understanding of the grief and loss aspects of natural disasters.
The power of peer to peer support groups for children and young people.
The learnings gained from delivery of groups in schools and community settings following traumatic community events.