Mental health survey of young lifesavers in Victoria – extended

Recent research has explored the mental health impacts of emergency service volunteering on young people. But what about lifesaving volunteers? A new survey is being conducted that will gather much-needed information about how being an active lifesaver affects the wellbeing of young volunteers.

Led by Dr Amanda Taylor at the University of Adelaide in partnership with the Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and Life Saving Victoria, the survey is now open to lifesaving volunteers in Victoria, aged between 16 and 25 and has been extended until 14 February. 

For this pilot survey, the researchers are only seeking responses from young lifesavers who volunteer in Victoria.

Complete the survey here.

Survey questions will explore mental health outcomes while volunteering, whether there is much awareness of mental health services or support and whether these support avenues are used.

Dr Taylor highlighted the essential role that lifesavers play within communities and why this research is needed.

“Young life saving volunteers play a vital role in keeping our communities safe, and our research aims to understand and identify ways to help maintain good mental health, so that they can continue in these important roles,” she said.

The results will provide an evidence-based snapshot of mental health outcomes and support needs for young lifesavers in Victoria, which can then be applied within clubs to strengthen and promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

Emma Atkins, General Manager – People at Life Saving Victoria, explained the importance of supporting the mental health of lifesavers.

“The wellbeing of our people is our highest priority,” she said.

“This study will help Life Saving Victoria to support the mental health of our young volunteers, who dedicate their time and efforts to keeping people safe around water.”

This research is an extension of the CRC’s Positive mental health in young adult emergency services personnel project, which led to the creation of mental health resources that are helping young emergency service volunteers strengthen and promote positive wellbeing. This project extension is funded with a donation from Baker Hughes.

The survey, accessible here, now closes on Monday14 February. 

If you have any questions about the survey, you can contact Dr Taylor.