The Sunshine Coast Koping Network (SC-Koping, 2002) is an association of government and non government agencies working collaboratively to support children and young people in a family system affected by mental health and/or dual diagnosis issues.
The SC-Koping Program’s overarching aim is to reduce the impact and intensity of mental illness and dual diagnosis on individuals, families and community by offering the following:
- SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN to identify and strengthen protective factors, reduce individual risk factors and strengthen coping and resilience.
- SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES (parents) to identify, strengthen or manage family protective and risk factors.
- SUPPORT FOR COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS to strengthen organisational capacity to respond to the needs of children in families with mental illness.
The programs offered include the following:
- GAINING GROUND GROUP: (13-17 years old) that runs 1 day a week over 3 weeks, 9am to 4pm.
- MIDDLE EARTH GROUP: (9-12 years old) that runs 1 day a week over 3 weeks, 9am to 4pm.
- MUPPETS GROUP: (6-8 years old) that runs 1 day a week for three weeks, 9am to 2.30pm.
- ANNUAL GAINING GROUND GETAWAY CAMP that runs 3 nights and 4 days.
- ANNUAL MIDDLE EARTH GETAAWAY CAMP that runs 2 nights and 3 days.
- PEER SUPPORT ACTIVITIES AND FAMILY DAYS that a run during the school holidays.
The camp program is strength-based and has a strong therapeutic component. The camps aim to build on the skills and knowledge gained through the group programs. The camps provide the youth with a break from their home and school life and an opportunity to re-engage with others in similar circumstances.
The camps provide a friendly and supportive environment in which young people can have fun, explore their feelings, and enhance their resilience, communication skills, social skills and self-esteem.
Objectives:
- To provide children and young people opportunities to share their experience in a safe and supportive environment.
- To provide opportunities for children and young people to enjoy a sense of peer support and friendships.
- To provide opportunities for children and young people to experience personal growth and learning.
Community mental health organisations are supported through:
- Education, training, consultation and liaison.
- Strengthening partnerships and communication through networks.
- Cross-agency collaboration on relevant projects and activities.
Families are supported through:
- The provision of relevant resources.
- Parent support groups (in development) and Family Days.
- Advocacy and links to other support agencies.