Dementia Australia has 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 chief executive Maree McCabe AM said these programs would 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.”
Ms McCabe said Dementia Australia was proud to be leading the charge to improve the dementia capabilities of the aged care workforce.
“In so doing, we will improve the quality of care provided for all people living with dementia and ensure better outcomes for everyone involved,” she said.
“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.”
The four Leadership and Practice Change programs, designed and delivered by Dementia Australia as part of Dementia Training Australia, are funded by the Commonwealth.
