AASW Webinar Recording | Living in the Space In Between - Support for Families of Missing People

Capability Levels: Emerging; Evolving

This webinar provides a comprehensive exploration of the Australian missing persons experience, aiming to debunk myths and clarify realities surrounding this complex issue. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by families affected by missing loved ones, equipping them with valuable insights into how to provide compassionate and effective support.

Furthermore, participants will learn how to sensitively engage with families and individuals impacted by missing persons cases, emphasizing empathy and communication skills essential for building trust and offering meaningful assistance.

Who should register?

There are a multitude of risk factors relevant to why people vanish – victims of crime, mental health concerns, misadventure or dementia-related conditions. This means that many social workers working in justice, health, mental health or aged care will engage with families of missing people over the course of your career. Understanding how to respond to families of missing people as a new social worker, established social worker or social work manager will be a benefit to your practice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Gain insight into the prevalence and risks associated with missing individuals in Australia.
• Explore evidence-based counselling and support strategies tailored for families affected by missing persons.
• Access resources aimed at enriching your social work practice.

AASW Credential: Mental Health

Testimonials

• "Sarah was very knowledgeable. The content was extremely relevant and current and there are things I can take away to apply to my practice."
• "Dr Sarah Wayland provided an inclusive, intersectionally aware, and culturally safe learning space in this webinar. A number of equity-deserving communities and lived experiences that are typically neglected were named, valued, and honoured. Sarah is highly skilled and compassionate, demonstrating a consistent depth of insight, cultural humility, and genuine commitment to understanding people on their own terms."