Supporting life after service: Fortem’s new CMP retirement workshop
Fortem Australia, the nation’s leading support organisation for first responders and their families, is proud to announce a new partnership with the Queensland Police Service. This partnership aims to provide comprehensive career management support for personnel transitioning due to age and medical reasons. This collaboration resulted from the Queensland Police Service selecting Fortem as the preferred provider through an open and competitive tender process.
Launched on Thursday, 10 October 2024, coinciding with World Mental Health Day and Fortem’s fifth anniversary, this partnership strengthens Fortem’s Career Management Program, which has effectively supported over 1,600 first responders from 18 agencies across Australia since its inception in mid-2021. Initially designed to assist first responders exiting service on medical grounds, the program has now expanded to include those retiring due to age and other reasons, thereby broadening its reach and impact.
First responders face unique challenges throughout their careers, including the psychological and physical toll of traumatic experiences. With studies indicating that approximately 65% of first responders experience burnout from chronic workplace stress, prioritising mental health and career wellbeing is more crucial than ever. The Career Management Program aims to address these critical issues, offering a structured support system tailored to the needs of Queensland Police Service personnel as they transition to the next phase of their lives.
Fortem’s Career Management Program takes a holistic approach to career support, integrating wellbeing services with career transition strategies. Participants will benefit from one-on-one case management with dedicated Career Management Specialists who understand the nuances of life as a first responder.
Services offered include resume writing assistance, interview coaching, career analysis, and recognition of prior learning and skills assessments. In addition to these core services, Fortem is creating resources to assist personnel in preparing for age and medical retirement from the Queensland Police Service.
Fortem CEO, Mick Willing APM, stated: “We are excited to partner with the Queensland Police Service to extend our Career Management Program. Our goal is to empower Queensland Police Service personnel as they navigate the complex transition out of service. By providing tailored support and resources, we aim to ensure that all participants feel valued and prepared for whatever their future holds.”
This partnership underscores Fortem Australia’s commitment to enhancing the lives and careers of first responders, helping them regain confidence and a sense of purpose as they pursue new professional opportunities. The Career Management Program has proven effective in fostering resilience and self-worth, with participant feedback highlighting the transformative impact of the program.
One Queensland Police Service officer expressed: “After some 36 years in policing across two states, it is a very daunting prospect having to enter the world of ‘job seeker’. I truly believe that Fortem is such a vital organisation, critical to helping first responders and their families adjust to their ‘new lives’ post-career. Without the vital services that Fortem provides to first responders, I know my confidence would still be very low, thinking I had little to no ‘transferable skills’ to aid me in outside employment.”
As Fortem continues to expand its support for first responders, this partnership with the Queensland Police Service marks a significant milestone in the journey toward enhanced career management and wellbeing for those who dedicate their lives to serving the community.
Please click HERE for more information about Fortem Australia’s Career Management Program.