Community Carers and Responders project reflections
We just finished another round of Community Carers and Responders (CCR) training, this time in Murwillumbah. Here's some feedback from day 1 of the training:
"Thank you so much!
Fantastic, informative, fun, engaging."
CCR training numbers so far
This year, 46 people have completed the full five-day CCR training across Ballina, Richmond Valley and Tweed. Many of these new CCRs have already stepped into action, with 9 community projects started and 3 already completed. We know this training is making a difference to people and they are making a difference in their community.
Some of the ways CCRs are making a difference
We’ve seen everything from neighbour contact directories to new support networks forming.
In Evans Head, a CCR went door-to-door to build local connections and hosted a morning tea that brought neighbours together for the first time.
In Ballina, a Brazilian newcomer who had just experienced Cyclone Alfred joined to feel more prepared and connected. He completed the full training and is now active in the CCR WhatsApp group.
One CCR from Kempsey, a mental health clinician with family ties to Cabbage Tree Island, is now exploring how to bring CCR training to his own community.
Unintended (but wonderful) outcomes
Sometimes the most powerful shifts are the ones we didn’t plan.
In Murwillumbah, connections between resilience groups led to new collaborations, including support for Chinderah's vulnerable caravan park communities.
A CCR from our Murwillumbah training joined our disability workshop co-design process, bringing her lived experience to shape the work.
These ripple effects are a beautiful reminder that when we build capacity and connection, unexpected possibilities unfold.
What’s next?
We will continue providing CCR training across the region and at the same time we’re listening closely to what people need. We’re working hard to make CCR more accessible. Plans are underway to trial a modular format to suit people with limited availability, and we’re exploring new versions tailored for younger people, men, and specific communities.
Want your community to be next?
Get your neighbours, family, friends, or community group together, and we’ll bring the training to you. Just email our CCR facilitator and coordinator, Renee, at renee@planc.org.au to explore what’s possible.
