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ANNUAL REPORT 2009-2010
The Peer Support Foundation Limited
2 Grosvenor Place
Brookvale NSW 2100
Phone: 02 9905 3499
Fax: 02 9905 5134
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.peersupport.edu.au
2
Mission
The Peer Support Australia Team
About Peer Support Australia
Implementing the Peer Support Program
How the Peer Support Program works
Peer Support Modules for Primary Schools
Peer Support Modules for Secondary Schools
Major Achievements
Future Directions
Chairman’s Report
General Manager’s Report
Our Supporters
Directors’ Report
Financial Reports
Page 3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 5
Page 6
Page 7
Page 8
Page 9
Page 10
Page 11
Page 12
Page 13
Page 14-16
Page 17
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
Table of Contents
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
3
ABN: 40 002 634 853
Mission
Peer Support Australia is a not for profit organisation dedicated to providing
peer led programs which foster the mental, social and physical wellbeing of
young people and their community.
Our vision is to develop in young people a sense of personal responsibility
for their own wellbeing, with the support of their peers and an informed and skilled community.
This is achieved through education programs for students, teachers, parents and community
members.
Peer Support Australia would not be able to achieve these objectives without the support of:
Founder: Elizabeth Campbell AM, BSc, TNDC
Chairman: David A Stanton FIA
Patron: James Dibble AM
Honorary Directors:
Jennifer Dalitz BA, MBA, CPA
Brian Halstead BE (Chem), BEc, CPA
Cheryl Hayman BCom
Judith Merryweather BSc, FACS
Lorraine Walker BA Dip Ed, Grad Cert RE
Staff: (as at 30.6.10)
Sharon Austin General Manager
Kristin Bell Training and Development Consultant (part-time)
Sharlene Chadwick Training and Development Manager
Josie Gallagher Training and Marketing Administrator
Lindsey Hogg Training and Development Consultant
Janet Ritchie Administration Assistant
Peter Tanswell Systems Accountant
The Peer Support Foundation was registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee in 1983,
following the early development and introduction of the Peer Support Program by Elizabeth
Campbell in the 1970s. The Foundation is accepted by the Australian Taxation Office as a Public
Benevolent Institution. In September 2007 the Peer Support Foundation registered the trading
name Peer Support Australia.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
4
It is with great sadness that we advise that since the writing of this report, the
Founder of the Peer Support Program,
Elizabeth Annita Campbell AM, BSc, TNDC,
passed away, aged 86, on 26 September 2010.
The impact of the Peer Support Program on hundreds of thousands of young
Australians will be Elizabeth’s legacy.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
Josie Gallagher, Training and
Marketing Administrator
Janet Ritchie, Administration
Assistant Peter Tanswell, Systems
Accountant
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE TEAM
TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM
Lindsey Hogg, Training and
Development Consultant
Kristin Bell, Training and
Development Consultant Sam Chadwick, Training and
Development Manager
Peer Support Australia’s Team
As at 30 June 2010
5
About Peer Support Australia
Peer Support Australia provides schools and their communities with a
program designed to develop mental, social and physical wellbeing. These
programs are implemented across the whole school and support a safer,
happier environment where effective teaching and learning can occur.
A range of training workshops that are designed to support school staff in
planning for and implementing the Peer Support Program are provided.
Scheduled workshops are held throughout the year at key locations.
The Peer Support Program is supported by a series of peer led modules which form part of a
learning continuum that aims to assist young people to develop positive values, attitudes,
behaviours and skills related to relationships, leadership, optimism, resilience, values and anti-
bullying. School communities are able to plot a learning pathway from Kindergarten through to
Year 12 with modules that address their specific needs and goals.
Implementing the Peer Support Program
In primary schools, student learning sessions are facilitated by Year 6 students with multi-age
groups from Kindergarten to Year 5.
In secondary schools, student learning sessions are available for a range of ages. The traditional
approach is Year 10 or 11 students facilitating groups for Year 7.
To support school communities in addressing specific areas of need and bring about positive
change, Peer Support Australia provides:
awareness raising workshops for community members
training and professional development for teachers
integrated learning modules for students—including notes for teachers, notes for Peer
leaders and resources for students.
Peer led learning programs allow young people to:
develop skills in cooperative learning
become better leaders
investigate issues they feel adults may not relate to
develop effective ways to deal with life experiences
explore ways in which other people deal with similar experiences.
Modules developed by Peer Support Australia focus on developing values, skills and
understandings vital to the wellbeing of young people. They are based on a peer led model of
learning and assist students to develop:
sense of Self
resilience
connectedness
sense of possibility.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
6
How the Peer Support Program works
Awareness Raising
Raising awareness is the first step in implementing the Peer Support Program. This usually takes
the form of a consultant’s talk to teachers, parents and community members. In some modules it
also involves surveying attitudes and gathering information in relation to a particular issue.
Training
Teachers and parents are then trained at district or whole school workshops for 1 day.
Teachers then train student leaders, using resources developed and provided by Peer Support
Australia. These student training sessions are conducted over 2 days.
Implementation
In primary schools, Peer leaders work with a small group of students for approximately 30
minutes a week using Peer Support Australia’s resource material. All Year 6 students take on
this leadership role. They facilitate groups of about 8—10 students from Kindergarten—Year 5.
In secondary schools, Year 10 or 11 students are trained and then encouraged to apply for this
leadership position. They are responsible for groups of 8—10 students from Year 7. Sessions
are conducted for 10 weeks. Some Peer Support Australia’s modules operate with same age
peers. This ensures age relevant issues are addressed in a supportive and positive environment.
Students are supported at every stage through briefing and debriefing sessions conducted by
teachers. Briefing is conducted at least the day before. Debriefing can take many forms and can
occur up to a day later. Briefing and debriefing are vital to the success of the Peer Support
Program. Schools are encouraged to involve parents in the Peer Support Program by providing
ongoing information. In this way parents can enjoy and build on their children’s Peer Support
experiences.
In recognition of the time commitments and constraints placed upon schools, the Peer Support
Foundation has developed a flexible delivery option for the anti-bullying program. This allows
schools to implement the training within their own time frame. This also enables school
communities to develop a stronger sense of ownership and commitment to dealing with bullying
behaviours in their school context.
Celebration
Celebration of the achievement of Peer Support groups and their leaders is one of the many
ways that individuals can build a sense of Self. Peer Support Australia encourages community
members to celebrate the achievements of young people by presenting Peer Support Foundation
certificates and badges. This also builds the connections between the school and its community.
We encourage all parents and community members to inspire and support our young people by
contributing to the Peer Support Program at your local school.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
7
Peer Support Modules for Primary Schools Getting Started
This module is an introduction for schools who have not previously run the Peer Support Program. The focus is on
groups working together and establishing group dynamics.
Key skills developed are: interpersonal
communication
Keeping Friends (8 sessions)
This module focuses on the complexities of relationships. Students will develop skills in maintaining positive
relationships by learning how to play fairly, accept that friendships change, support each other and acknowledge that
they may have a variety of friends.
Key skills developed are: values
critical thinking
empathy
negotiation
conflict resolution
Living Positively (8 sessions)
This module focuses on optimism. Students develop the skills and knowledge to approach life with a positive
attitude, use their strengths, engage in enjoyable activities and show gratitude to others.
Key skills developed are: resilience
empathy
coping
monitoring stress
Taking Opportunities (8 sessions)
This module focuses on resilience. Students identify their personal strengths, people who can support them and
strategies to assist in becoming more resilient.
Key skills developed are: coping
resilience
monitoring stress
planning
Promoting Harmony (8 sessions)
This module focuses on resilience. Students focus on the values of caring, respect, responsibility and fair go.
Students identify their personal strengths, people who can support them and strategies to assist in becoming more
resilient.
Key skills developed are: values clarification
relationship building
assertiveness
decision making
Speaking Up (8 sessions)
This module is part of a whole school approach to address the issue of bullying behaviours in a positive way and
includes staff training, teacher led lessons and a parent awareness raising sessions.
Key skills developed are: decision making
problem solving
assertiveness
empathy
relationship building
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
8
Framework for Orientation (4 areas) This framework focuses on the transition to secondary school for entry level students. Activities
have been designed to encourage students to work together and support one another. The flexible nature of the framework makes it ideal to incorporate into existing school orientation
programs.
Key skills developed are: coping
critical thinking
problem solving
negotiation
Facing our Challenges (8 sessions)
This module focuses on resilience and equipping students with the skills to cope more effectively
with situations they may find challenging.
Key skills developed are: optimism
empathy
positive self talk
perseverance
resilience
Behaving with Integrity (8 sessions)
This module focuses on values. Students explore individual and community values within a safe
and supportive environment. The core values of respect, responsibility, diversity, inclusion and
integrity are blended throughout the module
Key skills developed are: values clarification
relationship building
assertiveness
decision making
Working through Conflict (8 sessions)
This module focuses on anti-bullying and is designed, in conjunction with whole staff training, t o
address the issue of bullying behaviours in a positive way.
Key skills developed are: decision making
problem solving
empathy assertiveness
relationship building
conflict resolution
Peer Support Modules for Secondary Schools
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
9
Major Achievements in 2009 - 2010
Participated in Senate Inquiry on Children and Young People ―Children and Young
People Aged 9-14 Years in NSW - The Missing Middle‖
Participated in Senate Inquiry - ―Bullying in Children and Young People‖
Participated in Federal Senate Inquiry on Suicide Prevention
Submission to Senate Inquiry into Cybersafety
Presented at ARACY Conference 2009 (Making Prevention Work)
Presented at Protective Behaviours Conference 2009 - Canberra
Appointed 3 new staff members
Lindsey Hogg, Training and Development Consultant
Janet Ritchie, Part-time Administration Assistant
Peter Tanswell, Systems Accountant
Funding secured from Department of Health and Ageing to further expand the Peer
Support Program nationally
Implementation of an integrated CRM/Accounting package trialed in 2008/2009
Application of a more stringent measurement of what classifies an ―operational
school‖ in the Peer Support Program (this is now more easily enforced by the
automated CRM process)
Development of an evaluation and review tool to be used in redevelopment of
Student leadership training
An evaluation of the existing SRC Training workshop
Analysis of data from evaluations undertaken between 2007 and 2009 using the
recently developed Peer Support Program Evaluation Package. The analysis has
helped support Best Practice guidelines
Analysis of data from the above surveys to determine the universality of the
Program. Is the program equally effective with: government schools, catholic
schools, independent schools; urban, rural and remote schools; students who speak
English as their first language, students who speak English as their second language;
male and female students; schools in higher and lower socio-economic communities.
The evidence strongly supports that the Program is universal in these areas.
Trialing a computerised Risk Management System
Work towards a Quality Accreditation Process (Accreditation to be sought in next
financial year)
Expansion to and fit-out of new premises
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
10
Accreditation as a Quality Organisation by the Quality Improvement Council
Integrate the computerised CRM and Accounting Package with the website to
further automate processes
Improve debtor control processes
Instigate improved human resource processes incorporating current research on
Emotional Intelligence
Recruitment and induction of two new Training and Development Consultants
Publication of the Primary Student Leadership training notes
Redevelopment of the SRC Learning Guide and workshop support material
Facilitate an interstate focus group forum to investigate impacts of the Peer Support
Program and implementation barriers
Develop improved data analysis
Continue to seek opportunities to increase the profile of the Peer Support
Foundation
Continue to develop links with external, not for profit organisations and educational
sectors
Continue to make Government and Political links
Future Directions
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
11
Chairman’s Report
Peer Support Australia has once again had a very productive and satisfying
year, in spite of a number of challenges presenting themselves. We
addressed change on many levels, including staffing, office accommodation,
computer hardware, computer software and our web-site. It is a tribute to
the ability and resilience of our General Manager and her staff that we
nonetheless came through the year strongly, with a strong team well
prepared for any future challenges. I thank them all for their work during the
year.
Our work in expanding the availability of the Peer Support Program into
Queensland, Tasmania, Western Australia and the Northern Territory was
recognised by a continuation of funding from the Department of Health and
Ageing. The NSW Department of Health also continued their long-term
funding of our operations in New South Wales. We also continue to be
encouraged and financially supported by philanthropic bodies, including the
Raymond Purves Foundation, the James N Kirby Foundation, and the
Woodend Foundation. It is most gratifying to see our work recognised and
supported by these organisations.
A highlight of the year was our association with Peninsula Pals, a group of not-for-profit organisations based in the
Northern Beaches area of Sydney, established some years ago under the guidance of Jean Hay, Mayor of Manly. In
conjunction with Peninsula Pals we ran another successful fund-raising lunch on Melbourne Cup day, and a garden
party at Kirribilli House in April. It was good to meet Senator Ursula Stephens, Parliamentary Secretary for Social
Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector, at the garden party, and to have the opportunity to bring her up to date on our
activities. We were also able to renew ties with Mike Baird MP, local member for Manly and shadow treasurer in
the NSW government.
In September we were informed that a submission we made to the Curriculum council in WA had been approved
and they have endorsed the Peer Support Program. This means that from 2010 students completing this program
can count this learning towards their secondary graduation certificate – the Western Australian Certificate of
Education (WACE).
Our Consultative Group, made up of representatives from various health and education organisations and
government departments, once again provided valuable advice at our twice-yearly meetings. This group gives us an
opportunity to learn more about developments in the areas in which we are involved, and to keep members
informed about our activities and plans. It has been a most useful forum over the past 10 years, and I am sure it will
continue to be so into the future.
I would like to place on record my appreciation of the work of Sharon Austin, our General Manager, and Sam
Chadwick, our Training and Development Manager. During the 2009-2010 year Sharon celebrated her 10th
anniversary with Peer Support Australia, and Sam celebrated her 15th anniversary.
The board continues to function well, with all directors making valuable contributions to discussions, and I thank
them all for their input. I will be standing down as chairman at the Annual General Meeting in November, as I will
then have been in that position for 5 years. I am confident that the new chairman will continue to enjoy the support
of all directors and all staff members. I have great confidence in the ability of the directors and staff of Peer Support
Australia to continue to meet our mission to provide dynamic peer-led programs which foster the mental, social and
physical wellbeing of young people and their community.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
David Stanton, Chairman
and
Senator Ursula Stevens
at
Kirribilli House
12
General Manager’s Report
2009-2010 was a challenging year at Peer Support Australia, with
the continued development of the Peer Support Program
throughout Australia, the loss of some longterm staff, the
appointment of new staff, expansion into new accommodation and
bedding down the new integrated CRM and accounting systems.
In July 2009 we waited anxiously to have funding confirmed from the Department of Health and Ageing to enable us to continue our
growth of the Peer Support Program nationally. We were very
pleased that this was confirmed in August and the contract was
signed in September 2009. This funding contract is from June 2009-May 2011. National growth
has become an important strategic direction and as research continues to demonstrate the
importance of peer relationships, we are more than ever committed to making the Peer Support
Program accessible to as many young Australians as possible.
Col Harrison left the organisation in January 2010 to take up a position in the Middle East.
Zoe Dawson also moved on to explore new opportunities in April . We wish Col and Zoe every
success in their future endeavours.
We were very pleased to welcome Lindsey Hogg in February 2010. Lindsey was appointed as a
Training and Development Consultant and has already made a significant contribution to Peer
Support Australia.
New computer hardware was installed early in the year as a result of funding from James N Kirby
Foundation. This has made a huge difference to the efficiency of our systems.
Peter Tanswell and Janet Ritchie joined the Administration team in April. They are both proving
to be a great support and we welcome their input. Peter’s first project was to manage the fit-out
of new office space. This was carried out very efficiently and staff are very happy with their new,
bright surroundings.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff for their contribution this year, to
congratulate Sam Chadwick on achieving 15 years service and the publication of her book ―they
can’t hurt me‖, the board for their assistance and support, and all funding bodies, supporters and
sponsors for enabling us to continue to carry out the mission of Peer Support Australia. Lastly I
would like to thank all schools, teachers and students involved in the Program who have worked
so hard to make the Peer Support Program the success it is today.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
13
Our Supporters
The Peer Support Foundation thanks everyone who has supported us this year.
Government, Corporate and Philanthropic Sponsors 2009-2010
Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
NSW Department of Health
Manly Council
Catholic Church Insurances
James N Kirby Foundation
Raymond E Purves Foundation
State Street Australia Limited
United Way (Northern Beaches Youth Community Fund)
Woodend Pty Ltd
Individual Supporters
Special thanks to Mr and Mrs John Phillips. Your continued support is much
appreciated.
Registered Clubs
Many registered clubs throughout NSW and ACT kindly assist the Peer Support
Foundation with donations through the Community Development and Support
Expenditure (CDSE) scheme, complimentary room and equipment hire.
Members
Our members are the lifeblood of Peer Support Australia. Thank you for your
continued support.
AN N UAL R EPO R T 2009 -201 0
14
THE PEER SUPPORT FOUNDATION LIMITED
ABN 40 002 634 853
Directors’ Report
Activities of the Peer Support Foundation
As a not-for-profit organisation, the continuing activities of this company were those of a benevolent
foundation, supporting schools in the implementation of the Peer Support Program.
The Peer Support Foundation Limited does not have share capital. No debentures were issued during the
financial year ended 30th June 2010.
Events subsequent to the end of the financial year
There does not exist at the date of this report any contingent liability or any charge on the assets securing
the liability of any other person which has arisen since the 30th June 2010. No contingent liability has be-
come enforceable, or is likely to become enforceable before or on 30th June 2011 which, in the opinion
of the directors, will or may substantially affect the ability of the company to meet its obligations as and
when they fall due.
Directors’ benefits
No director of the company has, either during or since the end of the financial year, received or become
entitled to receive a benefit not disclosed in the accounts as directors’ emoluments, by reason of a con-
tract made by the company in which he/she has a substantial interest.
Review of operation and results
In this financial year, the Peer Support Foundation made a surplus of $214,949. This surplus was the re-
sult of self generated income comprising royalties, membership fees and interest. The operational costs of
the Foundation were met by fee for service, and State and Federal Government support. Income from
grants fell by around $180,000 as the result of the completion of a major Government project. This is
more than compensated for in the reduction of related expenses. Separate detailed audited accounts
were provided for this project. In the attached financial reports these expenses relating to the previous
financial year are allocated to an individual Project expense account.
Significant changes and state of affairs
The Peer Support Foundation has continued to expand its operations nationally during this financial year
to provide training and workshops in NSW, ACT, Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia and the
Northern Territory. These interstate activities have been supported by the Australian Government De-
partment of Health and Ageing. During September 2007 the Peer Support Foundation registered the busi-
ness name Peer Support Australia.
Future Developments and results
The Peer Support Foundation will develop ongoing theme specific modules for both Primary and Secon-
dary schools. There will be continued evaluation of new and current modules. National expansion will
continue to be pursued.
Environmental Issues
The Peer Support Foundation’s operations are not regulated by any significant environmental regulation
under a law of the Commonwealth or of a state or territory.
Directors’ meeting attendance, qualifications and special responsibilities
The Peer Support Foundation was well supported by its Honorary Board Members who met on 5 occa-
sions including its AGM. Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year unless other-
wise stated.
15
Directors
David A Stanton FIA Chairman
A subscriber to the formation of the company, David has served as a Director since its formation
and was elected Chairman on 17 October 2005. Prior to retirement he was Managing Director
of David Stanton & Associates Pty Ltd.
(Attended 3 Directors’ meetings and 1 AGM)
Brian Halstead BE, BEc,CPA
Brian was appointed to the Board in 1999. He was elected Chairman on 16 October 2000 and
served until David Stanton’s appointment on 17 October 2005. Prior to retirement he was
Chairman of Freightcorp and a Director and Chief Financial Officer for Unilever in Australia and
New Zealand. (Attended 2 Directors’ meetings)
Jennifer Dalitz BA, MBA, CPA Jennifer was appointed to the Board in April 2007. Jennifer
has international experience in consulting and professional services and over 10 years experience in Senior Management roles. She is the founder and SheEO of sphinx, a social enterprise commit-
ted to advancing women as leaders. (Attended 2 Directors’ meetings and 1 AGM)
Cheryl Hayman BCom
Cheryl was appointed to the Board in 2007. Cheryl brings extensive experience in marketing
with a variety of corporations, primarily through her role as Marketing Director. She is the Foun-
der and Managing Director of Hayman Strategy which specialises in strategic marketing and busi-
ness consultancy.
(Attended 3 Directors’ meetings and 1 AGM)
Judith Merryweather BSc FACS
Judith was appointed to the Board in 2007. With a background in IT, Judith has worked in con-
sulting and senior corporate roles. As a Principal of Alexer she provides strategic business sys-
tems consulting. She is a past Director of the Australian Centre for Advanced Computing and
Communications.
(Attended 4 Directors’ meetings and 1 AGM)
Lorraine Walker BA Dip Ed, Grad Cert RE
Lorraine was appointed to the Board in 2008. Lorraine has extensive experience in education,
particularly in the Catholic Sector over a period of twenty years as a teacher of History, English
and Religious Education. From 1990 to 2000 Lorraine was the Assistant Principal – Pastoral Care
at a large Catholic School with an enrolment of 1,500 students. Lorraine retired in 2009 as State
Coordinator – Student Welfare Programs with the Catholic Education Commission NSW.
(Attended 4 Directors’ meetings and 1 AGM)
Company Secretary—Sharon Austin
Sharon Austin held the position of company secretary at the end of the financial year.
Sharon has worked for the Peer Support Foundation since 1 November 1999 and currently
holds the position of General Manager.
16
Indemnifying Officers or Auditor
No indemnities have been given or insurance premiums paid, during or since the end of the finan-
cial year, for any person who is or has been an officer or auditor of the Peer Support Foundation.
Proceedings on behalf of the Peer Support Foundation
No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Peer Support
Foundation or intervene in any proceedings to which the Peer Support Foundation is a party for
the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Peer Support Foundation for all or any part
of those proceedings.
The Peer Support Foundation was not a party to any such proceedings during the year.
Auditor’s Independence Declaration The lead auditor’s independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2010 has been received.
Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.
17
THE PEER SUPPORT FOUNDATION LIMITED
A.B.N. 40 002 634 853
FINANCIAL REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED
30 JUNE 2010