ALTERNATIVE RESIDENCE
When a child or young person can’t live with their natural family due to safety concerns, neglect, or other challenges they are placed in an alternative residence. This refers to any safe, supervised living arrangement outside of the family home, these include;
- Residential Care- Group home-style living with trained staff, often used for older youths or those with complex needs.
- Short-term- Temporary care to support families or other carers.
- Residential Care- Living with a relative or someone the child already knows and trusts.
- The aim is to always find a place that meets the young person’s emotional, cultural and development needs.
TRANSTIONING FROM CARE
This refers to the process of preparing a young person to move out home care system and into independent living or a different permanent arrangement. This transition can include:
- Returning to family (when safe and appropriate)
- Living independently (in their own apartment with support)
- Accessing ongoing supports for employment, housing, and health.
We provide practical and emotional support through this process to ensure young people feel confident and equipped to take on adult responsibilities.
CONNECTION TO ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Children and youths in care often need access to a range of services to support their overall development and wellbeing. We help connect them with the right services at the right time, including:
- Education- Enrolment support, tutoring, school supplies, and liaison with schools.
- Healthcare- GP appointments, immunization and mental health professionals.
- Cultural and identity services- Children and youths from multicultural backgrounds to maintain a strong sense of identity and belonging.
- Legal and financial assistance- Guidance for youths navigation legal issues, ID documents, Centrelink or youth allowance.