Carelinkers mark first anniversary of service
The Carelinks Cadre has held its first annual forum in the multi-function room of Arsenal House, PHQ, with more than 50 Carelinkers and Steering Group Members of the Cadre turning up for the event, which also marked the first anniversary of its establishment.
Officiating at the opening of the forum, Chief Superintendent (PS&SR) Pauline Ng paid recognition to the Carelinkers' effort and contribution in the past year, and encouraged them to keep up their good work.
After Mrs Ng's address, Ms Frances Law, a Project Supervisor, and Dr Paul W.C. Wong, a Clinical Psychologist, both from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention at the University of Hong Kong, conducted a seminar on "How to Link and Care with Tired Cops".
From their professional perspectives, the guest speakers shared with the Carelinkers the recent trend of suicide in Hong Kong, which was based on the most updated research and literature on the subject, giving the audience valuable tips on how to care for their colleagues suffering from stress.
The presentation was very well received, with the Carelinkers engaging in a fruitful exchange of views and experiences with the speakers.
In the afternoon session of the seminar, the Carelinkers met in groups to share the experiences, insight and learning they obtained in offering services over the past year. Projecting their way forward in the coming year, they pledged to promote a culture of care and positive outlook of life among officers.
Though still in its infancy, the Cadre is lively and prospering. In the coming year, it will consolidate its knowledge and experience in helping, and will be able to provide more comprehensive, substantial services to members of the Force.
Meanwhile, the Cadre will run an interactive family life day camp in the Police College sometime this month, and participate in the 2006 Healthy Lifestyle Carnival being organised by the Personnel Services and Staff Relations Branch. The Carelinkers will also start receiving training on peer counselling in September, 2006, with a view to enhancing their capability and readiness to "link with" and "care for" their colleagues.
CSP (PS&SR) Mrs Pauline Ng (second left) and Carelinkers with the guest speakers
The exchange of views and experiences at the forum is both lively and fruitful
Dedicated Carelinkers are going to brush up their counselling skills