Overview
The vision of HealthWest Partnership’s Health Promotion Network is to build capacity for integrated health promotion that adds value to the work of our members and addresses the barriers to health information, services and support in Melbourne’s west.
The priority areas for the Health Promotion Network are:
- Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Access to Nutritious Food
- Physical Activity and Active Communities
- Preventing Violence Against Women
- Sexual and Reproductive Health
- Reducing Harms Associated With the Use of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Tai Chi in the park
The Health Promotion Network was established by HealthWest and comprises representatives from HealthWest’s member organisations. Priority issue working groups have been formed to progress work in our priority areas, and other member agencies participate where there is a strategic fit with their core work. The network’s members are:
- ISIS Primary Care
- Women’s Health West
- Djerriwarrh Health Services
- Melton Shire
- Brimbank City Council
- Norwood Association
- Wyndham City Council
- Hobsons Bay City Council
- Maribyrnong City Council
- Western Region Health Centre
- Gamblers Help Western
Addressing social determinants at a catchment level
As part of its integrated health promotion work, the HealthWest Integrated Health Promotion Network has undertaken a series of discussions to explore what it means to work on the social determinants of health and address health inequities at a catchment level. To support this, a short discussion paper has been developed and is available for download.
Addressing social determinants at a catchment level - discussion paper
Health Promotion Mentoring Program
HealthWest Partnership introduced a mentoring program in October 2012 to develop and enhance participants' skills in health promotion practice and increase their understanding of issues relevant to health promotion.The mentoring model involves a more experienced person (the mentor) supporting three to four less experienced people (the mentees) who have common learning goals. The mentoring sessions occur in a group environment. Initially the program is being piloted for 12 months, at which point it will be evaluated for ongoing benefit.
Mentoring Program Goals
- Provide practitioners wishing to develop or improve their health promotion practice access to appropriate mentors over a 12 month period
- To provide a framework for a negotiated agreement between a mentor and mentees that will develop specific knowledge and skills of the mentee
- To identify and promote the expertise of experienced practitioners within HealthWest member organisations
- To foster leadership in health promotion practice
- To provide a professional and supportive base from which practitioners can actively operate
Download the Mentoring Program Guidelines for more information on the program.
Mid-Point Evaluation Summary
- Ten participants commenced in the Health Promotion Group Mentoring Program in October 2012.
- Two mentees withdrew from the program in the first 6 months resulting in a mix of group mentoring and 1:1 mentoring.
- Nine participants took part in the mid-point evaluation.
- It was acknowledged that most groups had met only twice so these were initial reflections only and may change as the groups evolved beyond the establishment phase.
- Participants reflected on the program structure, and group mentoring versus 1:1 mentoring. Benefits of group mentoring: peer mentoring and peer validation happens at the same time with mentees sharing similar challenges; it can be more comfortable for first time mentees; it can extend/deepen the conversations; networking opportunities. Benefits of 1:1 mentoring: can be more honest, particularly when reflecting on career goals/aspirations; may share more as don't need to consider what is relevant to other mentees; easier to establish rapport and relationship; can be more tailored.
- Participants reflected on the program meeting their expectations. Most mentees had not been in mentoring programs in the past so did not come with defined expectations. All indicated they were enjoying the mentoring and finding it helpful.
- There was an acknowledgement of the time and task of the mentors in committing to the program.
- Participants identified some issues with defining discussion topics, and defining learning goals. Focusing on career projection and AHPA competencies as they relate to future career seemed an effective approach to direct the sessions.
- Suggestions for improvements included: an orientation workshop for participants to support expectations, defining learning goals, and considering mentoring approaches; offering both group and 1:1 mentoring if possible; an extra meeting in the establishment phase (first quarter); widening the geographic reach (e.g. across the region).
Expressions of Interest (EOI)
Expressions of interest to be involved in the 12 month pilot program have closed. Please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.