Family Support
Within the Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Hunter and Central Coast areas there is a wealth of family assistance available to those needing additional support coping with a variety of domestic issues. The alphabetical list below contains a snapshot of local charities, businesses and community based networks in the area that help families in need. Click on the links to be redirected to the relevant site.
Australian Red Cross
The Australian Red Cross works with the most vulnerable people and communities in Australia and internationally. Our work is focused around seven priority areas. Such as:
-International programs-Increasing international aid and development.
-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strategy-Together as partners with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
-Social inclusion-Overcoming social exclusion by providing bridges back into the community.
-Stronger communities- Tackling entrenched locational disadvantage
-International humanitarian law- Championing international humanitarian law.
-Migration support
-Addressing the impact of migration.
-Emergency services in Australia
-Strengthening national emergency preparedness, response and recovery.
Local Contact: Megan Lowndes - Project manager
Contact number: 0249 413 213
Service areas: Nation wide
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.redcross.org.au
The Australian Red Cross works with the most vulnerable people and communities in Australia and internationally. Our work is focused around seven priority areas. Such as:
-International programs-Increasing international aid and development.
-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander strategy-Together as partners with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
-Social inclusion-Overcoming social exclusion by providing bridges back into the community.
-Stronger communities- Tackling entrenched locational disadvantage
-International humanitarian law- Championing international humanitarian law.
-Migration support
-Addressing the impact of migration.
-Emergency services in Australia
-Strengthening national emergency preparedness, response and recovery.
Local Contact: Megan Lowndes - Project manager
Contact number: 0249 413 213
Service areas: Nation wide
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.redcross.org.au
Benevolent Society
The Benevolent Society helps families and children thrive. From playgroups and parenting education to family counselling and household budgeting. They can help build strong family relationships and support parents in being be the best mum and dad they can be.
Services also cater to supporting wellbeing which is a combination of physical, mental and social health factors that enable people to enjoy life and deal with challenges. Positive wellbeing helps an individual to be productive at work and build stronger relationships in life.
Learning and organisational development projects work in partnership with other organisations to improve the wellbeing of children, young people, families and older Australians, especially in disadvantaged communities. They also provide training, coaching, mentoring and consultancy services to practitioners and organisations.
Local Contact: Deborah Palmer- Family Referral Worker, Mace Topperwien- Community Capacity Builder
Contact number: 0249 226562, 0249 226500
Service areas: Nation wide
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.benevolent.org.au/
The Benevolent Society helps families and children thrive. From playgroups and parenting education to family counselling and household budgeting. They can help build strong family relationships and support parents in being be the best mum and dad they can be.
Services also cater to supporting wellbeing which is a combination of physical, mental and social health factors that enable people to enjoy life and deal with challenges. Positive wellbeing helps an individual to be productive at work and build stronger relationships in life.
Learning and organisational development projects work in partnership with other organisations to improve the wellbeing of children, young people, families and older Australians, especially in disadvantaged communities. They also provide training, coaching, mentoring and consultancy services to practitioners and organisations.
Local Contact: Deborah Palmer- Family Referral Worker, Mace Topperwien- Community Capacity Builder
Contact number: 0249 226562, 0249 226500
Service areas: Nation wide
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.benevolent.org.au/
Brighter Futures- Samaritans
Brighter Futures provides support and services to promote healthy child development, and strengthen resilience in families. The Brighter Futures Program provides early support and services that include:
-Quality Child Care -Home visiting -Parenting programs
The goals of the program are to promote healthy development in children, promote strong, functional and well-supported families and reduce/prevent child abuse and neglect in participating families. Each family joining the program will actively identify and prioritise their goals for each family member.
Community referrals may be made by community agencies, individuals or self-referral.
Local Contact: Case managers: Wendy Cope, Jackie Hornery, Cath Fairs.
Contact number: 0249 507 225, 0240 149 300
Service areas: Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Upper Hunter, Wyong, Gosford.
Email: [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/brighterfutures/
Brighter Futures provides support and services to promote healthy child development, and strengthen resilience in families. The Brighter Futures Program provides early support and services that include:
-Quality Child Care -Home visiting -Parenting programs
The goals of the program are to promote healthy development in children, promote strong, functional and well-supported families and reduce/prevent child abuse and neglect in participating families. Each family joining the program will actively identify and prioritise their goals for each family member.
Community referrals may be made by community agencies, individuals or self-referral.
Local Contact: Case managers: Wendy Cope, Jackie Hornery, Cath Fairs.
Contact number: 0249 507 225, 0240 149 300
Service areas: Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook, Cessnock, Dungog, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Upper Hunter, Wyong, Gosford.
Email: [email protected], [email protected],
[email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/brighterfutures/
CALM (Community Activities Lake Macquarie)
CALM delivers services to children and families and youth from 0 to 25 years. Current services include early intervention and prevention program with children and families, youth related support, driver mentor program and Out of School Hours care programs.
Local Contact: Denise Stocker- Child & Family Team, Roslun Ewart- Student Welfare, Bradley Dunn- Youth Development Officer.
Contact number: 0249 503 883, 0249 503 811
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, NSW
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://calm.org.au/
CALM delivers services to children and families and youth from 0 to 25 years. Current services include early intervention and prevention program with children and families, youth related support, driver mentor program and Out of School Hours care programs.
Local Contact: Denise Stocker- Child & Family Team, Roslun Ewart- Student Welfare, Bradley Dunn- Youth Development Officer.
Contact number: 0249 503 883, 0249 503 811
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, NSW
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://calm.org.au/
The CanopyThis ag
This agency provides a large number of services such as ideas on how to
respond to children’s behaviour, free parenting programs (Triple P, 123 Magic, Incredible Years), child and family services, intensive family support. The Canopy manages projects for:
Families And Children (Most of these services are FREE)
Contact number: 0249 081 140
Service areas: Lake Macquarie area
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thecanopy.org.au/
This agency provides a large number of services such as ideas on how to
respond to children’s behaviour, free parenting programs (Triple P, 123 Magic, Incredible Years), child and family services, intensive family support. The Canopy manages projects for:
Families And Children (Most of these services are FREE)
- Advice, information, referral and support to help with parenting
- Parenting Groups such as Triple P and Incredible Years
- Drop in morning for parents and carers
- Intensive Family Support (by referral only)
- Intensive Family Preservation (by referral only)
- Out Of School Hours Care and Vacation Care
- Meeting Place for Community Groups such as Playgroup, Northlakes Church
- Activities such as Community Sewing, Little Kickers and Tiny Tutus
- Services such as Lifeline Counselling
- State of the Art Facilities for Hire for Groups, Conferences, Functions and Parties.
- DVD resource package which looks at healthy and unhealthy relationships and gives tips on what to do if you are in an abusive relationship. Available on request for individuals and organisations.
- Annual family event "Choices Family Festival" which brings together all Lake Macquarie services and groups who support families.
- Small projects around the notion of "positive family choices" facilitated by social work and welfare students.
Contact number: 0249 081 140
Service areas: Lake Macquarie area
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thecanopy.org.au/
Creative Times
By the Samaritans
Creative Times is an innovative program that works with children and their families going through challenging times. Creative Times has a focus on early intervention and prevention, supporting people by promoting individual, family and community strengths.
Families can access support from Creative Times in a number of ways:
Contact number: 0249 421 621
Service areas: Gateshead, Windale, Mount Hutton, Charlestown, Mayfield, Islington, Tighes Hill, Maryville, Wickham, Carrington
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/creative-times/
By the Samaritans
Creative Times is an innovative program that works with children and their families going through challenging times. Creative Times has a focus on early intervention and prevention, supporting people by promoting individual, family and community strengths.
Families can access support from Creative Times in a number of ways:
- An after school goal focused activity group for 8-12 year olds in the Gateshead, Mayfield and surrounding areas
- Individual counselling for children or adults in a family
- Family catch up sessions
Contact number: 0249 421 621
Service areas: Gateshead, Windale, Mount Hutton, Charlestown, Mayfield, Islington, Tighes Hill, Maryville, Wickham, Carrington
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/creative-times/
Drop In Centre "Early Intervention Activities"
By the Samaritans
All young people between the ages of 9-18 are welcome to drop in and attend youth drop-in groups. The service offers support to young people and their families and is delivered by way of specialised programs, individual casework, group activities and skill-focused groups. This is a free service and is offered to schools, other organisations and members of the community.
Local Contact: Senior Worker
Contact number: 0408 117 951, 0249 425 275
Service areas: Based at Woodberry and Woodrising. Servicing Lake Macquarie & Newcastle areas.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youth-early-intervention-activities/
By the Samaritans
All young people between the ages of 9-18 are welcome to drop in and attend youth drop-in groups. The service offers support to young people and their families and is delivered by way of specialised programs, individual casework, group activities and skill-focused groups. This is a free service and is offered to schools, other organisations and members of the community.
Local Contact: Senior Worker
Contact number: 0408 117 951, 0249 425 275
Service areas: Based at Woodberry and Woodrising. Servicing Lake Macquarie & Newcastle areas.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youth-early-intervention-activities/
Early Intervention & Activities
By Samaritans
EIA provides the following range of services for families with children under 13 years and for young people aged 13-17 years and their families in the following areas:
•Advice and Referral
•Assessment& Case Planning
•Client focused case work
•Assistance to link in with additional services
•Assistance for parents & caregivers to access parenting programs and skills development groups
•Skills development groups and/or casework for young people engaged in school
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0243 321 141
Service areas: Central Coast areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/eiacentralcoast/
By Samaritans
EIA provides the following range of services for families with children under 13 years and for young people aged 13-17 years and their families in the following areas:
•Advice and Referral
•Assessment& Case Planning
•Client focused case work
•Assistance to link in with additional services
•Assistance for parents & caregivers to access parenting programs and skills development groups
•Skills development groups and/or casework for young people engaged in school
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0243 321 141
Service areas: Central Coast areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/eiacentralcoast/
Eastlakes Women's & Children's Refuge
Provides accommodation for women and children who are experiencing varying degrees of domestic violence. This organisation works with the families and offers support and case management where requested to assist them in securing safe and affordable housing.
Contact: Abigail Fenner- Child & Youth Case Worker, Julie McQuire- Child & Family Worker
Contact number: 0249 508 328, 02 49 714 599, 1800 65 64 63 (Refuge Accommodation)
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, NSW
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://huntercommunityhub.org/directory/eastlakes-womens-children-refuge
Provides accommodation for women and children who are experiencing varying degrees of domestic violence. This organisation works with the families and offers support and case management where requested to assist them in securing safe and affordable housing.
Contact: Abigail Fenner- Child & Youth Case Worker, Julie McQuire- Child & Family Worker
Contact number: 0249 508 328, 02 49 714 599, 1800 65 64 63 (Refuge Accommodation)
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, NSW
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://huntercommunityhub.org/directory/eastlakes-womens-children-refuge
Edgeworth Neighbourhood Centre & Northlakes Youth Services
The Adolescent & Family Counselling Service provides counselling to young people 9-18yrs and their families who are at risk of family breakdown. The counsellor also provides limited group work facilitation, referral if required and works in conjunction with other services and government bodies. The centre is involved in a lot of community activities, provides education and recreation courses and a place for people to socialise, discuss concerns and to gain support.
Contact: Richard DeMartin- Youth Worker
Contact number: 0249 658 198, 0401 534 610
Service areas: Based at Edgeworth. Services the Northlakes area.
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.emnc.org.au/
The Adolescent & Family Counselling Service provides counselling to young people 9-18yrs and their families who are at risk of family breakdown. The counsellor also provides limited group work facilitation, referral if required and works in conjunction with other services and government bodies. The centre is involved in a lot of community activities, provides education and recreation courses and a place for people to socialise, discuss concerns and to gain support.
Contact: Richard DeMartin- Youth Worker
Contact number: 0249 658 198, 0401 534 610
Service areas: Based at Edgeworth. Services the Northlakes area.
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.emnc.org.au/
EDuCARE Support Services
By Hunter New England Health, NSW Government
Aims to improve the health and wellbeing of all carers. Carers may provide physical and/or emotional support to another person for a few hours a week, or all day every day. Carers may or may not live with the person for whom they care. Carers can be partners, parents, friends, sisters, brothers, neighbours, children of any age. EDuCARE provides carer education programs and workshops throughout the year, these cover a variety of topics including: Stress management, Practical skills for carers, Community resources, Legal and financial issues, Emotional aspects of caring. EDuCARE also provides support to Young Carers within the Hunter. Current initiatives include: Young Carer forums, Facilitating Young Carer Camps, One-day workshops, Working in consultation with Department of Education.
Local Contact: Carer Support Officers- Liz Bosorth, Kathy Jones.
Contact number: 0249 214 895
Service areas: Based at New Lambton Heights, NSW
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/educare_support_service
By Hunter New England Health, NSW Government
Aims to improve the health and wellbeing of all carers. Carers may provide physical and/or emotional support to another person for a few hours a week, or all day every day. Carers may or may not live with the person for whom they care. Carers can be partners, parents, friends, sisters, brothers, neighbours, children of any age. EDuCARE provides carer education programs and workshops throughout the year, these cover a variety of topics including: Stress management, Practical skills for carers, Community resources, Legal and financial issues, Emotional aspects of caring. EDuCARE also provides support to Young Carers within the Hunter. Current initiatives include: Young Carer forums, Facilitating Young Carer Camps, One-day workshops, Working in consultation with Department of Education.
Local Contact: Carer Support Officers- Liz Bosorth, Kathy Jones.
Contact number: 0249 214 895
Service areas: Based at New Lambton Heights, NSW
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/educare_support_service
Family InSight
Family InSight works with families with children aged 0-12. The programs are designed to enhance the health, wellbeing and development of children and to support parents to be confident, positive and connected with their communities. A referral is required for the Volunteer Home Visiting Service and Cessnock Family Worker Program. This service provides several programs: Parenting & Early Years program; Volunteer Home Visiting Service; Family Worker (Cessnock); Kids Patch (Raymond Terrace); Hunter Networks of Practice. Refer to the website for specific information of each program.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 610 700 (Hamilton North), 0265 413 000 (Muswellbrook)
Service areas: Cessnock, Maitland, Raymond Terrace, port Stephens, West Lake Macquarie, Upper Hunter, Singleton
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.familyinsight.org.au/
Family InSight works with families with children aged 0-12. The programs are designed to enhance the health, wellbeing and development of children and to support parents to be confident, positive and connected with their communities. A referral is required for the Volunteer Home Visiting Service and Cessnock Family Worker Program. This service provides several programs: Parenting & Early Years program; Volunteer Home Visiting Service; Family Worker (Cessnock); Kids Patch (Raymond Terrace); Hunter Networks of Practice. Refer to the website for specific information of each program.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 610 700 (Hamilton North), 0265 413 000 (Muswellbrook)
Service areas: Cessnock, Maitland, Raymond Terrace, port Stephens, West Lake Macquarie, Upper Hunter, Singleton
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.familyinsight.org.au/
Family Referral Service (FRS)
By Benevolent Society & NSW Health
The role of the FRS is to assist vulnerable children, young people and families who do not meet the statutory threshold of ‘at risk of significant harm’ to access specific and appropriate support services in their local area.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 1300 006 480
Service areas: Based at Charlestown, Raymond Terrace, Muswellbrook, Lithgow, Watanobbi.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.benevolent.org.au
By Benevolent Society & NSW Health
The role of the FRS is to assist vulnerable children, young people and families who do not meet the statutory threshold of ‘at risk of significant harm’ to access specific and appropriate support services in their local area.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 1300 006 480
Service areas: Based at Charlestown, Raymond Terrace, Muswellbrook, Lithgow, Watanobbi.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.benevolent.org.au
Gambling & Financial Counselling
By Samaritans
Gambling Counselling can involve individual personal counselling, relationship counselling, family counselling and counselling for grief and loss. People can also seek assistance with financial counselling including budgeting, payment plans and money management.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 933 455
Service areas: Cessnock, Maitland, Singleton and Muswellbrook areas.
Email: Not provided
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/gambling/
By Samaritans
Gambling Counselling can involve individual personal counselling, relationship counselling, family counselling and counselling for grief and loss. People can also seek assistance with financial counselling including budgeting, payment plans and money management.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 933 455
Service areas: Cessnock, Maitland, Singleton and Muswellbrook areas.
Email: Not provided
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/gambling/
Hunter New England NSW Health
A variety of specialised services are offered in community settings, which means families in many circumstances can receive care without needing to travel to a hospital. Some services provided can be accessed without referral, others accept self-referral, while many require a doctors referral. Each service provides information on the website that outlines referral guidelines and contact information to seek further information. Refer to the website for further information on each service.
Child & Family Health -> 0249 246300
Child & Family Health Team -> 0249 246 400
Early Childhood Information Team -> 0249 257 847
First Steps Parenting Centre -> 0249 246 550
Speech Pathology service -> 0249 242 590
Youth Health Team -> 0249 257 804
Complex Physical Disability Service -> 0249 257 868
Paediatric Brain Injury Rehabilitation Team -> 0249 257 963
Paediatric Rehabilitation Team -> 0249 257 868
Child Protection Counselling Service -> 0249 246 294
Sexual Assault Service -> 0249 246 333
Aboriginal Family Violence Worker -> 0249 246 294
Service areas: Statewide services. The services listed above service the Newcastle, Central Coast and Hunter areas.
Email: Not supplied
Website: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/home and http://www.kaleidoscope.org.au/site/index.cfm
A variety of specialised services are offered in community settings, which means families in many circumstances can receive care without needing to travel to a hospital. Some services provided can be accessed without referral, others accept self-referral, while many require a doctors referral. Each service provides information on the website that outlines referral guidelines and contact information to seek further information. Refer to the website for further information on each service.
Child & Family Health -> 0249 246300
Child & Family Health Team -> 0249 246 400
Early Childhood Information Team -> 0249 257 847
First Steps Parenting Centre -> 0249 246 550
Speech Pathology service -> 0249 242 590
Youth Health Team -> 0249 257 804
Complex Physical Disability Service -> 0249 257 868
Paediatric Brain Injury Rehabilitation Team -> 0249 257 963
Paediatric Rehabilitation Team -> 0249 257 868
Child Protection Counselling Service -> 0249 246 294
Sexual Assault Service -> 0249 246 333
Aboriginal Family Violence Worker -> 0249 246 294
Service areas: Statewide services. The services listed above service the Newcastle, Central Coast and Hunter areas.
Email: Not supplied
Website: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/home and http://www.kaleidoscope.org.au/site/index.cfm
Hunter Outreach Program
By The Family Action Centre & The University of Newcastle
Hunter Outreach Program is a unique mobile support service offering a range of activities & assistance to families in the lower Hunter region of NSW. All services are offered free to families who require some extra support. Services include case management, parenting programs, practical & skill development eg 1, 2, 3 magic, emotional coaching and Triple P (Positive Parenting Program).
Local Contact: Penny Crofts (Acting Director)
Contact number: 0249 216 858
Service areas: Located at Callaghan Campus, University of Newcastle
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/research-and-innovation/centre/fac/programs/hunter-outreach
By The Family Action Centre & The University of Newcastle
Hunter Outreach Program is a unique mobile support service offering a range of activities & assistance to families in the lower Hunter region of NSW. All services are offered free to families who require some extra support. Services include case management, parenting programs, practical & skill development eg 1, 2, 3 magic, emotional coaching and Triple P (Positive Parenting Program).
Local Contact: Penny Crofts (Acting Director)
Contact number: 0249 216 858
Service areas: Located at Callaghan Campus, University of Newcastle
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/research-and-innovation/centre/fac/programs/hunter-outreach
Hunter Women's Centre
Hunter Women’s Centre is a non-government, not for profit, community based organisation which provides services to improve the health and wellbeing of the women of the Hunter. Services available include information and referral, counselling, case management, therapeutic and support groups, workshops, advocacy, outreach and community education. Also available at the centre is free legal advice and information and a number of complimentary health therapies and activities. It also runs programs for students within schools.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 682 511
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Maitland, Dungog, Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Upper Hunter, Port Stephens.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.hwc.org.au/home.aspx
Hunter Women’s Centre is a non-government, not for profit, community based organisation which provides services to improve the health and wellbeing of the women of the Hunter. Services available include information and referral, counselling, case management, therapeutic and support groups, workshops, advocacy, outreach and community education. Also available at the centre is free legal advice and information and a number of complimentary health therapies and activities. It also runs programs for students within schools.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 682 511
Service areas: Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, Maitland, Dungog, Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Upper Hunter, Port Stephens.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.hwc.org.au/home.aspx
In-Home Child Care
By The Samaritans
An educated child care professional comes into the family home to assist in caring for children. This service caters for children who normally wouldn’t fit into a service, eg multiple births or children with high needs.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0438 327 137
Service areas: Cessnock, Singleton
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service_category/youth-services/
By The Samaritans
An educated child care professional comes into the family home to assist in caring for children. This service caters for children who normally wouldn’t fit into a service, eg multiple births or children with high needs.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0438 327 137
Service areas: Cessnock, Singleton
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service_category/youth-services/
Intensive Family Support (IFS)
By Samaritans
The aim of this program is to maintain each family unit and reduce the risk of children entering the Out Of Home Care system. This program offers:
•Assistance to link in to parenting programs and skills focused groups
•Practical skills and planning
•Intensive case management
•Refer and liaise with external providers such as community activities, groups, education and training opportunities, skills training (etc) to meet the family’s needs. Referrals are only received through FaCS (0243335961)
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0243 335 961
Service areas: Central Coast
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/intensive-family-support/
By Samaritans
The aim of this program is to maintain each family unit and reduce the risk of children entering the Out Of Home Care system. This program offers:
•Assistance to link in to parenting programs and skills focused groups
•Practical skills and planning
•Intensive case management
•Refer and liaise with external providers such as community activities, groups, education and training opportunities, skills training (etc) to meet the family’s needs. Referrals are only received through FaCS (0243335961)
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0243 335 961
Service areas: Central Coast
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/intensive-family-support/
Lakes Community Outreach
This agency provides support groups, referrals and outreach services for young people and their families. A free and confidential service assisting with counselling in the following areas: adolescence; relationship & family; domestic and family violence; parenting programs; legal referrals and support; independent living groups; LOVEBITES program; and support people at risk of homelessness.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 588 608 (Westlakes), 0249 714 454 (Eastlakes)
Service areas: East & west Lake Macquarie areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: not online
This agency provides support groups, referrals and outreach services for young people and their families. A free and confidential service assisting with counselling in the following areas: adolescence; relationship & family; domestic and family violence; parenting programs; legal referrals and support; independent living groups; LOVEBITES program; and support people at risk of homelessness.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 588 608 (Westlakes), 0249 714 454 (Eastlakes)
Service areas: East & west Lake Macquarie areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: not online
Lifestyle Solutions
Through the Child and Family Services, Lifestyle Solutions provide a range of supports for children and young people who, for various reasons, are unable to live with their own family. They seek to provide a safe, nurturing, secure environment for these individuals to foster connection with peers, adults and their community and develop life skills that can assist them to manage their emotions in a way that supports their wellbeing. The services offered in New South Wales are: Foster Care, Specialist Residential Support Services, Family Group Homes, Camp to Belong, Leaving Care Support. Refer to the website for further information on each program.
Local Contact: Petra Ahrens-Murray- Facilitator
Contact number: 0240 144 305
Service areas: 0417415 349
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lifestylesolutions.org.au/
Through the Child and Family Services, Lifestyle Solutions provide a range of supports for children and young people who, for various reasons, are unable to live with their own family. They seek to provide a safe, nurturing, secure environment for these individuals to foster connection with peers, adults and their community and develop life skills that can assist them to manage their emotions in a way that supports their wellbeing. The services offered in New South Wales are: Foster Care, Specialist Residential Support Services, Family Group Homes, Camp to Belong, Leaving Care Support. Refer to the website for further information on each program.
Local Contact: Petra Ahrens-Murray- Facilitator
Contact number: 0240 144 305
Service areas: 0417415 349
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.lifestylesolutions.org.au/
Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre
The Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre provides information and referrals on: Youth & family services; migrant services; counselling; education & training; health services; accommodation. Activities: local events, arts & craft, music & photography, digital media, sport & recreation, playgroup sessions for toddlers, etc. For students 12-17yrs from all backgrounds. This service also runs educational courses and workshops for: English, computers, job search, homework centre (primary and high school).
Local Contact: Dale Garbutt- Family & Youth Worker
Contact number: 0249 655 291
Service areas: Based at Lambton. Servicing the Westlakes area.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.mncinc.org.au/
The Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre provides information and referrals on: Youth & family services; migrant services; counselling; education & training; health services; accommodation. Activities: local events, arts & craft, music & photography, digital media, sport & recreation, playgroup sessions for toddlers, etc. For students 12-17yrs from all backgrounds. This service also runs educational courses and workshops for: English, computers, job search, homework centre (primary and high school).
Local Contact: Dale Garbutt- Family & Youth Worker
Contact number: 0249 655 291
Service areas: Based at Lambton. Servicing the Westlakes area.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.mncinc.org.au/
Toronto West Youth Group
Open Monday & Wednesday 2pm-7pm for high school students. A variety of activities for children to socialise with peers, such as pool, table tennis, video games, craft, music, table games, gym. Food and drinks provided. Information sessions cover:- drugs and alcohol use, education, general health and mental health, legal issues, career advice, transport, life skills eg budgeting, nutrition, concerns in youth (eg anti-social behaviour and peer group pressure).
Local Contact: Jeanette Suttie
Contact number: 0409 154 392
Service areas: Based at Toronto. Servicing Westlakes areas.
Email: [email protected]
Website: Not online
Open Monday & Wednesday 2pm-7pm for high school students. A variety of activities for children to socialise with peers, such as pool, table tennis, video games, craft, music, table games, gym. Food and drinks provided. Information sessions cover:- drugs and alcohol use, education, general health and mental health, legal issues, career advice, transport, life skills eg budgeting, nutrition, concerns in youth (eg anti-social behaviour and peer group pressure).
Local Contact: Jeanette Suttie
Contact number: 0409 154 392
Service areas: Based at Toronto. Servicing Westlakes areas.
Email: [email protected]
Website: Not online
WEA Hunter
The WEA offers a range of courses in personal development & wellbeing courses, lifestyle courses and community programs that relate to supporting families and young adults. Such as “Curious, Caring & Resilient Kids” course which is for parents and caregivers who would like to start thinking creatively and critically about how to create resilient, curious and engaged children/adolescents in a rapidly changing world. Courses change each semester. Refer to the website for current courses.
Local Contact: Sue Collins
Contact number:
Service areas: Based at Newcastle
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.weahunter.edu.au/
The WEA offers a range of courses in personal development & wellbeing courses, lifestyle courses and community programs that relate to supporting families and young adults. Such as “Curious, Caring & Resilient Kids” course which is for parents and caregivers who would like to start thinking creatively and critically about how to create resilient, curious and engaged children/adolescents in a rapidly changing world. Courses change each semester. Refer to the website for current courses.
Local Contact: Sue Collins
Contact number:
Service areas: Based at Newcastle
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.weahunter.edu.au/
Young Parents Group
By The Place, Charlestown Community Centre
This young parents group meet each Friday 12.30-3pm. The program is free and lunch is provided. For parents who are in their teens or early 20s to get together with their children and meet other families. Activities include play, cooking, craft, pamper days, guest speakers, self-defence, first aid and excursions. Male and females can attend.
Contact: Shelley Wilson, Erin BearContact number: 0240 325 500
Service areas: Based at Charlestown. Services Lake Macquarie and Newcastle areas
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.theplacecharlestown.org.au/index.jsp?topic=193
By The Place, Charlestown Community Centre
This young parents group meet each Friday 12.30-3pm. The program is free and lunch is provided. For parents who are in their teens or early 20s to get together with their children and meet other families. Activities include play, cooking, craft, pamper days, guest speakers, self-defence, first aid and excursions. Male and females can attend.
Contact: Shelley Wilson, Erin BearContact number: 0240 325 500
Service areas: Based at Charlestown. Services Lake Macquarie and Newcastle areas
Email: [email protected], [email protected]
Website: http://www.theplacecharlestown.org.au/index.jsp?topic=193
Youth Direct
By the Samaritans
A phone and drop-in service for young people aged 12-25 years old. Samaritans Youth Direct offers extensive help to young people with everything from counselling, accommodation and parenting advice to drugs and alcohol, relationships and much more. Youth Direct can also help parents/carers and support workers by referring to the appropriate support service to:
Contact number: Free call 1800 171 800, 0249 221 502
Service areas: Services Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Maitland, Port Stephens, Dungog.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youthdirect/
By the Samaritans
A phone and drop-in service for young people aged 12-25 years old. Samaritans Youth Direct offers extensive help to young people with everything from counselling, accommodation and parenting advice to drugs and alcohol, relationships and much more. Youth Direct can also help parents/carers and support workers by referring to the appropriate support service to:
- talk to a young person about their problems
- learn more about how to support young people
- find information about where you can find the right help
Contact number: Free call 1800 171 800, 0249 221 502
Service areas: Services Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock, Maitland, Port Stephens, Dungog.
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youthdirect/
Young Parents Support
By Samaritans
The Young Parent Support Project works with young parents and their children by providing group activities, play grooups, day programs as well as support and referral to other services.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 311 005
Service areas: Based at maitland. Services Maitland and Dungogo areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youngparents/
By Samaritans
The Young Parent Support Project works with young parents and their children by providing group activities, play grooups, day programs as well as support and referral to other services.
Local Contact: Not provided
Contact number: 0249 311 005
Service areas: Based at maitland. Services Maitland and Dungogo areas
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youngparents/