VIC, Eastern Region - Integrated Family Services

Eastern Region Integrated Family Services offers a comprehensive suite of services that predominantly incorporates outreach, case management and group work to children and families within Maroondah, Knox and Yarra Ranges areas whom are assessed as being in need.

Services include:

• Mental health support
• Parenting support - 0 to 18 years
• Crisis intervention
• Personal issues
• Drug and alcohol issues
• Domestic violence issues
• Housing difficulties

Referrals are received via the Child FIRST team (1300 369 146) and once assessed are allocated accordingly. Referrals can be made by individuals requiring a service or professionals.

Families are individually case managed by working in partnership with an identified case manager to achieve specific goals highlighted by the referring worker and/or family.

To compliment case management Integrated Family Services run the following groups which are need led:

KIDS CLUB
Kids Club is the graduation group from the CHAMPS Program. Children aged 6 to 12 years are welcome at Kids Club once they have completed a CHAMPS Program. Kids Club is a peer to peer, parent to parent support group that emphasises having a fun family time. Kids Club is held once a month. Parents and carers are encouraged to stay and participate in activities that range from bowling, bush walking, picnics, swimming, arts and crafts and movie nights. Referral takes place via the FaPMI Program.

TRANSFORMERS BOYS GROUP
Transformers - 'Boys Group' is a therapeutic group for boys who may have or are still experiencing behavioural difficulties, bullying, peer pressure, family violence and drug and alcohol issues. The group runs during term time after school from 4pm to 5.30pm in the Community Hall at Croydon Anglicare. Afternoon tea is provided. Referral takes place via Danni or Damien (Group Facilitators) on 03 9721 3688.

Evaluation of groups is undertaken at the end of each term for the individual groups. Evaluation forms are tailored for each group.

Ongoing evaluation is undertaken via the Team Leaders for case management. This is to ensure standards are met and for quality assurance.

Groups are creatively introduced to meet the current need and trends.

Referrals to the group work programs can come from individuals (ie self referrals), schools, GPs and other community service providers. Group work programs cover the whole of the Eastern Region.