Dear OLSCC families,

As we get into that time of term where exams are being conducted and assessments are racing towards their due date, students and families may be feeling some emotional strain. I thought that I would take this opportunity to highlight free services that are available to support families at home. These services are Family and Child Connect and Carer Gateway.

Family and Child Connect  is a valuable service designed to assist families facing various challenges. If your family is going through tough times, Family and Child Connect offers free, unlimited, and confidential advice. Here’s how it works:

• What They Do:
• Assessment: Assess your family’s needs and situation.
• Connection: Connect you to local services that can provide practical support.
• Support:  Experienced family support workers listen to you and guide you to the right resources.
• Areas of Support:
• Child Behavior: Managing your child or teenager’s behavior (e.g., skipping school, school refusal, tantrums).
• Family Relationships: Building better family relationships.
• Violence Prevention: Stopping any violence at home.
• Financial Management: Budgeting and managing money.
• Substance Issues: Alcohol, drug, or gambling problems.
• Health and Housing: Access to health care, housing, and other community or government services.
• How to Reach:
• Phone: Call 13 FAMILY (13 32 64) for advice and support.
• Online: Complete an online referral form. https://familysupportreferral.org.au/
• Interpreters: If needed, we can arrange free interpreters.

Customised support:

•  Every family is unique, and the services tailors it’s advice and support to your specific situation.

Carer Gateway is a free service and support program for carers of family members or friends who are facing various challenges. Whether you’re caring for someone with a disability, a long-term medical condition, mental illness, alcohol or drug dependency, or someone who is frail due to age, Carer Gateway is here to assist you. Here’s what you need to know:

1. What Carer Gateway Offers:

• Emotional and Practical Support: Carer Gateway provides a range of services to make your life easier. These include peer support groups, tailored support packages, counselling, coaching, online skills courses, and emergency respite.
• Connection to Local Services: By calling Carer Gateway, you’ll be connected with a network of service providers across Australia. They will listen to your needs and help you find local services and support.
• Real Carers, Real Stories: Explore the stories of carers from diverse backgrounds who share their experiences and how Carer Gateway has supported them.

• Anyone can be a carer. You might not even realise you’re a carer. Whether you’re a child, parent, partner, or friend caring for someone close to you, you can access help and support from the government and other organizations.

• Planning for Emergencies: Carers need to plan for emergencies to cope even when things go wrong.
• Respite Care: Respite care allows someone else to take care of the person you care for, giving you a break to rest and recharge.
• At-Home Support: Understand the tasks you perform as a carer and learn about available assistance.

Carer Gateway aims to support carers early in their caring role, increase their skills, and reduce the stress of caring. Remember, you’re not alone—help is available! ??

To learn more please visit the website https://www.carergateway.gov.au/

Please email or call me on the school number if you would like to discuss these supports further. My email is: Katrina.ballantyne@twb.catholic.edu.au

Katrina Ballantyne

School Guidance Counsellor