What does Family Services do?
We support families to help them provide safe, nurturing environments for their children.
We aim to offer the most effective and flexible service possible.
What do we have to offer?
The family Services team offers intensive casework and case coordination; in in-home (or other outreach) and office- based settings. We offer services that fit with the individual plans we develop with and for each family and their children. These may include: parenting support, whole of family work, linkages with other services, case-coordination, advocacy, and group work.
Our aim is to provide the best range of services a family requires to assist them with their children’s development, rather than one set response for all families. Our family workers are dedicated to developing plans with each family that can cater for their unique needs.
How do we do this?
We take the position that families usually know what sort of help they need to assist them in providing safe, nurturing environments for their children.
Our job then is to work together with a family to build and work on plans that will help them reach their goals. Where we can’t provide all the services ourselves, we help the family find the best alternative possible.
Who can use Family Services?
Any family with dependent children (0 – 18yrs) who feel they could benefit from this service, and who has been referred to us through our Child FIRST service
How do families access these services?
By directly contacting our Child FIRST (ph: 1800 705 211) Or,
By someone else making the initial contact on your behalf
Child FIRST will work with you to find the most appropriate child and/or family support service in the community to meet your needs
Is there a waiting time?
There might be! Don’t let that put you off ringing and making a start. Child FIRST will work with you to help you access services in the community.
How long are the services provided?
This will depend on the plans and needs of the family. Some just need a short time; others may take a bit longer. That’s another part of our flexibility!
Is there a cost involved?
No, the services are provided free of charge. The Victorian Government’s Department of Human Services provides the funding.
What is Child FIRST?
Child FIRST stands for:
Child
F amily
I nformation
R eferral
S upport
T eam
Child FIRST provides a single point of entry into child and family support services in our community. This team works to ensure that all families receive the support they need to give their children safe and nurturing environments. Child FIRST builds strong links and pathways with all these services.
To discuss whether Family Services would be the best service for you and your children:
Call Child FIRST on: 1800 705 211
Family Services Brochure
Family Counselling Alcohol & Drugs Brochure
