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Training program
Intake for training is quarterly, with a 7-10 day training program completed one day per week over ten weeks. Most of the training is peer led and volunteers can attend on the day convenient for them. In addition, trainee volunteers attend three two-hour training sessions. There is a training manual to be followed and reading to be completed, prior to an informal assessment.
The training program is based on a peer-learning model.Trainees learn from volunteers who have completed the training and are providing support and information for clients contacting the Reconnexion service. The training covers information about benzodiazepines, analgesics, anxiety and depression. It also assists volunteers to address issues such as working with a suicidal caller or assisting someone having a panic attack.
At the completion of the training, volunteers will have a comprehensive knowledge of benzodiazepines and analgesics and an understanding of anxiety and depression. An assessment is undertaken with the volunteer coordinator before any phone calls are taken by a new volunteer.After the completion of training and three months experience on the phones, a certificate of competency is available. | 
