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HELP LINE FOR CARERS
FCAV believes carers need all the support possible and with this in mind, we are planning to set up a Help Line for carers. The FCAV has provided information, support and advocacy for carers for many years. Since the office opened in January 2005, the Coordinator has also been able to provide some assistance to carers. However as approximately 1,000 calls are received per annum, a more accessible, organized and supported system is now needed. The FCAV has welcomed a proposal from Post Placement Support Service (PPSS) to partner FCAV in providing a Help Line for home based carers. PPSS provide support permanent carers, adoptive and inter country adoptive parents. PPSS had been planning to develop a help line, but upon hearing of FCAV’ intention, thought that a cooperative effort would avoid duplication. Both organizations share the aim of providing information and support to home based carers and both organizations receive a high proportion of calls relating to permanent care both pre and post court. FCAV will continue as the lead agency for the Help Line with PPSS as a partner. PPSS has undertaken to develop a resource manual which will be a very valuable contribution. The Help Line telephone service will be provided by a team of specially trained carers who volunteer to provide support, information and advocacy for carers. The training provided will involve 2 short courses of 2 days duration to be held in Melbourne, later this year. We hope eventually to have this service operating on a regional basis but this will need to be worked towards gradually. The FAST program (Foster Care Advocacy and Support Team) from Queensland Foster Care Association will be assisting us with this training. Help Line volunteers will be able to take calls in their own homes. Calls will be diverted to the volunteer on roster from the office phone. Calls as you can imagine can be about all sorts of issues including Centrelink enquiries, the need to debrief, anxiety about a complaint or allegation, communication difficulties, access arrangements to name a few! Sometimes carers just like to talk to another carer. The FCAV will be developing protocols with DHS and agencies to ensure that the Help Line develops as a positive, constructive project supported by DHS and agencies. The FCAV working group and the Help Line Reference group (comprised of representatives of DHS, CSOs, The Centre for Excellence in Child & Family Welfare, PPSS and FCAV) have been working hard on policies and protocols which will be reviewed by the FCAV committee of management at their April meeting. If you are interested in supporting carers and extending your skills and experience by becoming a Help Line volunteer, please contact Julien at the FCAV office on 9 489 9770 or email admin@fcav.org Interest from carers based in both country and city locations will be very welcome. Julien Leith Coordinator. |
