The Family Support Program offers flexible and responsive assistance to vulnerable families with children and young people aged 0-17 years in the Colac Otway and Corangamite Shires.
The team provides case management, support, counselling and assistance with linking families to other services.
What we do
The program offers in-home support to families with children 0-17 years who may be experiencing difficulties or are vulnerable. The service is child-centred, family-focussed and provides a flexible, culturally sensitive, respectful and supportive service that builds on the strengths of parents for the benefit of the whole family. The family, together with the Family Support Worker sets goals to work towards outcomes that are in the best interest of the children and young people in the family.
The Family Support Program can involve:
- Strengthening parenting capacity;
- Support family connections to the community;
- Give parents the skills to maintain positive relationships;
- Provide a responsive and flexible service tailored to meet the family’s needs;
- Network closely with other community services also linked with the family.
Who we care for
The team provides support, case management, counselling and linking to other services for vulnerable children, young people and their families.
Commonly asked questions
How long does the program run?
Support can be short or long term at varying levels of intensity.
How much does it cost?
The Family Support Program is free.
What are the benefits?
Parenting can be challenging and family life is not always straight forward. Families may benefit from support when experiencing stress or difficult times. The Family Support Program aims to provide support that strengthens families, assisting with resources and strategies that improve family functioning.
How to access this service
All referrals are generally through Access Point – Barwon Safety and Support Hub (Orange Door). They will identify whether the Family Support Program is appropriate for the family and will prioritise access on a case by case basis. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families may access support directly by calling CAH Family Support on 5232 5500.
What to bring
Family Support Services are usually delivered in people’s homes.
