Because everyone needs a BRO
Supporting each other is vital in the fast-paced environment of the Emergency Department (ED). That’s why ED BROS (Building Resilience and Offering Support), a peer support program for Nepean Hospital ED staff, has become such an important resource.
Pictured from left to right: ED Staff Specialist, Bron Lever, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Megan Budek, and Registered Nurse Naomi Ng
Founded by Clinical Nurse Consultant, Megan Budek, ED Staff Specialist, Bron Lever, and Registered Nurse Naomi Ng, ED BROS offers a simple way for staff to connect with a trained peer after a difficult shift, distressing incident, or patient death.
“It’s not counselling,” Megan explains. “It’s about having someone who understands, who can listen and offer support when you need it most.”
“We wanted to create a safe space where people can be honest about how they’re feeling without any judgement.”
Staff can easily reach out by scanning a QR code and choosing how they want to connect by phone, text, or face-to-face. The response is quick and informal, with both male and female BROS available across clinical and non-clinical roles.
With Mental Health Month underway, we’re shining a light on this fantastic initiative and the positive impact it’s having in the ED. Early feedback has been positive with many staff now choosing to become BROS themselves.
“Many have shared how comforting it is to have someone who truly understands their experience. It really shows how much this peer support means to our team,” says Megan.
Congratulations to Megan, Bron, and Naomi for founding such a valuable program that truly supports our Nepean Hospital ED staff.
At Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, we offer a variety of wellbeing programs to support our dedicated staff. ED BROS is just one example of how we’re prioritising staff mental health and wellbeing.