A PEER support group is hoping reform in Bendigo and provide face-to-face meetings for residents.
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The GROW group previously had meetings in Bendigo but they stopped in early 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of the country.
GROW program worker Lindy Croucher said mental health support was very important following a year with two lockdowns and a return to lockdown over the past week.
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"The whole experience of last year enabled us to upskill with Zoom and most groups transitioned to (online)," she said. "Now we can go to the best of both assuming groups can be face-to-face after (the five-day lockdown).
"We probably need six or eight strong expressions of interest (to recommence meetings). As soon as we have got that and a venue can get started.
"Enough time has passed now that we are looking to reopen face-to-face groups. Some people by moving it to Kangaroo Flat would make it more accessible Castlemaine, Kyneton and even Kangaroo Flat people."
Ms Croucher said group meetings between four to nine people allowed a more intimate and safe space.
"(It is better) for people with social anxiety but big enough to be a healthy support," she said.
"We are a member-run movement, so it is all about peer support. Group meetings are run by members but there is a strong structure and training around that.
"In Bendigo we have an experienced GROW member, who has continued to participate on Zoom but when we have a face-to-face group he will add support to it."
Ms Croucher said GROW was a non-medical model that was not affiliated with any particular religions or treatments.
"If people are wondering if it is for me, we encourage them to come along and give it a go and maybe even bring a support person," she said.
"We're a non-medical model, so you don't need a diagnosis. We just relate to each other as ordinary human beings who share tips and strategies of coping with all facets of life, loss, relationship breakdowns and stress.
"There is a lot of immediate acceptance and no judgement. It is a safe space to build up confidence and trust in people."