Community Directory

Transcription

Community Directory

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY
In partnership with Healthy Schools, Healthy Futures, and project sponsors:
Callaghan College Community Directory
Table of Contents
Emergency Contacts .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Local Hospitals and GP Access ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Utilities .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Aboriginal Services .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Alcohol ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Cancer ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Careers and Employment .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Carers ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Community Centres ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
Counselling ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Disability ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Disadvantage ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Material Aid ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 18
Domestic Violence ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Drugs ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Education .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Family Services ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Gay and Lesbian .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Grandparents as Carers ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Health ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Housing ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Justice and Legal ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 34
Mental Health ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Multicultural .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Sexual Assault .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 40
Telephone and Online Support ................................................................................................................................................................. 40
Women ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 43
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Youth Services .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 44
Emergency Contacts
Ambulance, Fire, Police
000
NSW Police
Newcastle
Charlestown
Waratah
Raymond Terrace
4929 0999
4942 9999
4926 6599
Poisons Info Line
State Emergency Service
Lifeline Crisis Support
Salvo Crisis Support (suicide prevention)
DOCs Helpline (24 hrs)
Newcastle City Council
Mental Health Emergency (24 hrs)
Interpreter service
13 11 26
4983 7599
132 500
13 11 14
9311 2000
13 21 11
4974 2000
1800 655 085
4929 4191 or 1300 651 500
Local Hospitals/Medical Services
John Hunter Hospital
Calvary Mater Newcastle
Hunter New England Health
GP Access line after hours
4921 3000 Lookout Road, New Lambton
4921 1211 Cnr of Edith and Platt Streets, Waratah
1800 063635
1300 130 147
Utilities
13 13 88
1300 657 000
13 19 09
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Hunter Water Corporation
Gas Emergency
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Ausgrid (24 hr. emergency)
Aboriginal Services
Aboriginal Child and Youth Counselling Team
Operating as part of the Awabakal Medical Service, the Aboriginal Child and Youth Counselling Team provides mental
health and wellbeing support and treatment for a range of issues including family breakdown, loss and grief, troubled
relationships, self-esteem, stress management, anxiety, depression, self-harm, eating disorders, addiction/substance
abuse, domestic violence.
Phone: 4969 2477
Address: 38a Samdon Street Hamilton NSW 2303
Aboriginal education and training
Support, leadership, advocacy and advice about education and training for Aboriginal students and communities
Phone: 9244 5393
Fax: 9244 5365
Email: [email protected]
Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer
The role of the Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer is to:
Provide emotional, social and cultural support to patients and their families.
Advocate and liaise on behalf of patient and families
Provide information about hospital services
Assist with referrals to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organizations.
Phone: 4922 3190
Address: John Hunter Hospital Lookout Road New Lambton NSW 2305
Aboriginal Family Violence Worker
Family violence and assault service offered by Hunter New England Health. The primary purpose of the Aboriginal
Family Violence Worker is to provide accommodation, support and case management services to women and children
who have experienced and/or are experiencing domestic violence and abuse.
Phone: 4924 6175
Address: Wallsend Health Campus Harker Building Longworth Ave. Wallsend NSW 2287
Aboriginal Legal Service
ALS assists Aboriginal men, women, young people and children who have come into contact with Police or the courts,
youth detention or incarceration
Phone: 1800 765767 or 49261571
Address: Level 3 50 Hunter Street Newcastle
Web: www.alsnswact.org.au
Abstudy Team Hunter (Department of Human Services)
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Phone: 132 317
Address: Local Centre link Office, 279 King St, Newcastle West 2302
Web: http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/abstudy
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One-on-one support to determine eligibility and aid in claiming and managing Abstudy payments. Abstudy is available for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are enrolled in an approved course or apprenticeship, and not receiving
any other government assistance to study or do an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Awabakal Medical Service
Services provided by the Awabakal Medical Service:
Mental health information and referral - 38a Samdon St Hamilton (02) 4940 0453, [email protected]
Alcohol and drug counselling - (02) 4940 0453 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton, [email protected]
Sexual health - 38a Samdon St Hamilton (02) 4940 0453, [email protected]
Medical assessment and treatment - 02) 4907 8555 – FREE CALL 1800 292 225, Cnr Denison & 38A Samdon
St Hamilton NSW 2303
Community health and health promotion - (02) 4940 8103 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton NSW 2303
Tobacco and Healthy Life team - 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton (02) 49400453, [email protected]
Domestic violence counselling - 64 Hannell St Wickham (02) 4962 2822, [email protected]
Birra li Women's child and maternal health - (02) 4940 8103 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton NSW 2303
Stolen Generation counsellor (Bringing Them Home) - (02) 4940 0453 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton,
[email protected]
Karuah Aboriginal community health nursing – (02) 4940 8103, 8-10 Hudson St Hamilton NSW 2303
Transport services - (02) 4962 2811, (02) 4962 2822
Dental Service - (02) 4907 8514, 38a Samdon Street, Hamilton
Phone: (02) 4940 8103
Address: 38a Samdon Street Hamilton NSW 2303
Web: http://www.awabakal.org
Awabakal Aboriginal Community Services
Services provided by the Awabakal Aboriginal Community Services include:
Elderly and disability care via the Community Age Care Packages (CACP) program – this is the provision of short to
medium term support to young people living with a disability who are still living at home to maximize their
independence and community participation, as well as delivery of a range of individualised services to assist frail
aged people daily care needs.
Transport services are available to eligible Aboriginal people who are 50 years and over, or an Aboriginal person
with a disability (this includes Children) and their Carers. The service provided includes door to door, wheelchair
accessible transport to enable access to health services, and community/cultural events.
Phone: 4969 2108 or 4969 4711
Address: 64 Hennel St Wickham NSW 2293
Web: http://www.awabakal.org
Awabakal Local Aboriginal Land Council
LALC work for their members and the wider Aboriginal community living in their local area. They assist in matters
relating to the areas of housing, legal, employment and other day to day matters.
Phone: 4965 4632
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Address: 127 Maitland Road Islington NSW 2296
Web: www.alc.org.au
Barkuma Neighbourhood Centre – Burkuma Buunji Family Violence Project
This project is for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are experiencing violence in their current home and
wish to move forward. This is the first step in the road to recovery for victims. This project is for females, males, parents,
youth, children, singles and grandparents.
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Phone: 4937 1094
Address: 76 Lang Street Kurri Kurri, NSW 2327
Web: http://www.barkuma.org.au
Birra Li
Birra Li is a service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pregnant mums, babies, children and families. The service
aims to provide culturally appropriate support and education during pregnancy, after birth and for children up to early
school years. On-site practitioners include Aboriginal health education officers, registered midwives, child and family
health nurses, social worker and lactation consultant. The services include child and family primary health care,
including at home immunisation, child health checks, support service referrals and health education. Referral to Birra Li
is required and can be obtained via GP, staff at the Awabakal Medical Service or staff at the HNE antenatal clinic.
Phone: 4924 6595
Web: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/birra-li
CAMHS Wiyiliin Ta Counselling Team
This innovative program provides culturally appropriate assessment and treatment of children and adolescents of high
school age experiencing a range of mental health, emotional and behavioural difficulties. Centre based and outreach
services are provided, as is consultation to other services. Clinical Staff include Aboriginal Counsellors, and a Clinical
Psychologist.
Phone: 4925 7800
Address: Lookout Road New Lambton NSW 2305
Web: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/mh/services/mhsf/camhs/wiyiliinta
Domestic Violence Line
The Domestic Violence Line is a statewide free call number and is available 24 hours, seven days a week. The Domestic
Violence Line provides telephone counselling, information and referrals for women and same sex partners who are
experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. Trained female caseworkers are sensitive to the needs of people
who have experienced domestic violence. Domestic Violence Line staff are aware of the special needs of Aboriginal
women and women from other cultures, as well as those living in rural and remote areas.
Interpreters and TTY can be arranged where necessary to ensure that all people, regardless of their language or disability
can use the service. The service has an extensive list of contacts, people and services across NSW who can help.
The Domestic Violence Line makes referrals to women's refuges and explains what they are and what they do. It also
makes referrals to family support services, counselling, the police and courts, lawyers and hospitals. It helps with
transport, emergency accommodation and other support.
Phone: 1800 656 463
Web:
http://www.community.nsw.gov.au/docs_menu/parents_carers_and_families/domestic_and_family_violence/dv_line.ht
ml
Hunter Aboriginal Children’s Services
The Hunter Aboriginal Children's Services is a community driven and government funded not for profit organisation. Its
main functions are to provide foster care to Aboriginal children and young people of the Hunter Region and to support
the families of those Aboriginal children. As well as providing support to Aboriginal families in crisis and young people at
risk of involvement with Juvenile Justice.
The Hunter Aboriginal Children's Services currently has nearly over 40 Aboriginal foster families and can place up to 60
Aboriginal children and young people into long term foster care. The Hunter Aboriginal Children's Services has 16
employees including Case Workers in Out of Home Care (Foster Care), Family Support and Carers’ Support.
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Phone: 1300 874 231
Address: 1 Elizabeth St, Tighes Hill, NSW 2297
Web: http://www.hunteracs.org.au
Itji Marru Aboriginal Resource Centre
The centre promotes Aboriginal Studies. School visits are encouraged and a large meeting room is available for booking
for community meetings. The Centre promotes Aboriginal Education to its school and community for both Aboriginal and
non-Aboriginal students and community members.
Phone: 4970 5407
Address: Morisset High School, Bridge Street, Morisset, NSW
Kirinari Hostel Newcastle
Provides short-term boarding accommodation for Aboriginal males attending high school in the Hunter Region
Phone: 4943 4362
Address: 15 Myall Road, GARDEN SUBURB, 2289, NSW
Web: www.ahl.gov.au
Koti Bula Umullan (Newcastle Family Support Service)
Koti Bula Umullan provides a range of services to Aboriginal families caring for children in the Newcastle / Lake
Macquarie areas. The family worker service provides home or centre based counseling, parenting support information,
and clients can access information, advocacy and referral to appropriate services.
Phone: 4926 3577
Address: 558 Hunter Street, Newcastle West, NSW 2320
Web: http://www.nfss.org.au/Services/KBUP.htm
Medicare Indigenous Access Program and Access Line
Free call for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to get information and support. The Access line is supported by
the Medicare Liaison Officers for Indigenous Access who are culturally aware to the flexibility and special conditions that
may affect Indigenous people.
Phone: 1800 556 955
Muloobinba Aboriginal Corporation
Muloobinba Aboriginal Corporation endeavours to provide culturally appropriate, confidential and sensitive supports
both practical and emotional to Aboriginal people in times of need. Services include:
Advocacy
Budgeting and financial planning support
Family Support
Home visiting
Referrals to other services
Parenting support and strategies
Energy Accounts Payment Assistance
Emergency Relief Program
Court Support
Support Groups
Phone: 49695299
Address: 12 Bishopsgate St Wickham NSW 2293
Web: http://www.muloobinba.org.au/home
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To assist youth and families by providing information that is up to date and relevant in a culturally appropriate manner.
Programs and services include:
Adolescent Issues
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Wandiyali
Education and Support
Young Parents and Parents to be support services
Domestic Violence Support
Disability Support
Community Service Support
Raising Adolescents Support
Out of home support.
Phone: 49575900
Address: 3/37 Griffiths Road Lambton, Newcastle, Australia 2299
Web: http://wandiyali.webs.com
Alcohol
Al Anon Family Groups/Alateen
Designed to support families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with someone whose drinking is a
problem. Group sharing and counselling services, and the Alateen recovery program for young people, utilise the
foundations of the ‘Twelve Step’, ‘Twelve Traditions’, “Twelve Concepts of Service’ .Support meetings held in Hamilton,
Maitland, Mayfield, Newcastle, Raymond Terrace, Warners Bay, Windale.
Phone: Admin: 9463889; Helpline: 1300252666
Address: Room 6, St Peter's Church Hall, Dixon Street, Hamilton NSW 2303
Web: http://www.al anon.alateen.org/australia
Alcohol and Drug Info Service (24hr)
Free service for anyone seeking help about their own drug use or that of a family member or friend. Available 7 days a
week, 24 hours a day
Phone: 1800 422 59
Newcastle Bridge Youth & Family (NBYF)
This program has been designed to help young people aged between 12 25 and their families, within the Hunter Region,
address barriers or issues relating to drug and alcohol use. The program operates through a referral system. Young
people can either self-refer or be referred by other agencies. Alternatively young people can be referred by phone. Once a
referral is received, clients are contacted within 24 hours and an initial appointment is organised for a caseworker to
meet with the client. At this initial appointment a ‘needs assessment’ is conducted and a case plan implemented.
A Drug and Alcohol Awareness course is also available to young people who have legal matters resulting from substance
use. These referrals can be made from Juvenile Justice, Probation and Parole, Legal Aid or court chaplains. For families,
parents, husbands, wives, partners or siblings who are suffering the effects of Drug and Alcohol use within the family
environment, NBYF can offer you crisis support, interventions and ongoing follow up to support you through this difficult
stage. A 5 week parent support group is also run throughout the year.
Phone: 4969 8066
Web: http://salvos.org.au/oasishunter/
Holyoake Hunter (Mercy Community Services)
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Phone: 4961 2686
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Holyoake offers group education, therapy and support programs for families impacted by problematic drug use and
gambling. There are structured Holyoake group programs available for children (from as young as five), adolescents, and
adults: the sons, daughters, siblings, husbands and wives, parents and grandparents of substance or process dependent
people. Holyoake also offers assessment, referral and ancillary individual counselling services. Staff regularly conduct
community and interagency education sessions with schools, local government, health and community services.
Address: 32 Union St, Tighes Hill 2297
Web: www.mercyservices.org.au
The Anchor Men’s Crisis Centre (The Salvation Army)
The Anchor Men’s Crisis Centre provides short term crisis accommodation and case management, via self-referral or
referral via agency or Government institution. Following initial assessment interview, an extended placement may be
offered in this case managed program offering counselling, living skill and positive lifestyle courses, accommodation
advise and referral to rehabilitation programs for drug and alcohol abuse.
Phone: 4961 6129
Address: 26 Cowper St, Carrington 2294
Web: www.salvationarmy.org.au
Cancer
CanTeen
Peer support network of cancer patients, young people living with cancer, their siblings, bereaved siblings and offspring
who share experiences, have fun, offer resources and promote understanding, wellbeing and leadership. Through a wide
range of camps and programs, CanTeen encourages young people to share their experiences, make great friends and have
fun. Other services include counseling, structured peer support programs, and referral to Youth Cancer Services
programs.
Phone: (02) 4906 1122
Address: Suite 2, Ground Floor 14 Albert St, Wickham, NSW 2293
Web: http://www.canteen.org.au/
Newcastle Cancer Support Group – ‘Make Today Count’
The prime aim of the service is to provide support, comfort, hope, respite, understanding and example for any person
who has received a diagnosis of a life threatening illness such as cancer, motor neurone disease, MS, etc. and for those
(including children) who are bereaved. Services are provided by a group of trained volunteer carers who are in turn
supervised and supported by a part time Co-ordinator and a full time Community Outreach Worker. The services
provided are free of charge and include:
Mutual Support Meetings ( Illness, Carer and Bereavement support)
Home and hospital visits for all who need us from the time of diagnosis
Emotional support for patients and their families
"Seasons for Growth" program for adults
Grief and Loss Support for adults and children.
Volunteer Training Program
Guest Speaking and targeted workshops
Phone: (02) 49438462
Address: 44Dudley Rd Charlestown NSW 2290
Web: http://www.maketodaycount.org.au
Careers and Employment
Structured workplace learning program
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CareerLinks manage and facilitate a range of programs and initiatives which connect young people with business,
education, community and families. CareerLinks help to create links and provide training opportunities for young people
to improve education and transition outcomes. Services include:
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CareerLinks
School based traineeships and apprenticeships
Career pathway advice and linking/referral support
Phone: 49537099
Address: 1/89 Mitchell Road, Cardiff, NSW, Australia 2285
Web: http://www.careerlinks.nsw.edu.au
New Horizons
Short term accommodation and tenancy assistance, including support or representation to ensure clients obtain or retain
accommodation. Other services include:
Assistance with tenancy obligations
Budgeting and financial planning
Life stages, transitions and support that focuses on building capacity and skills to lie independently at home and
participate in the community
Coordination of complex supports dealing with and resolving crisis situations
Mentoring and peer support
Accessing and maintaining employment in the open labour market, or to work in specialised and supported
work environments.
Assistance to transition from school to work, on the job training and support
Specific disability related employment readiness training, assistance in specialized (supported) employment
Support with daily personal activities
Phone: 4956 3299
Address: 5/115 Griffiths Road Lambton, NSW 2299
Web: http://newhorizons.net.au
The Olive Branch Cafe (Salvation Army)
The Olive Branch Café, Hamilton: provides young people with the opportunity to develop hands on work skills through
participating in the operation of a functioning busy café close to Newcastle CBD.
Phone: 4969 8066
Address: 67 Cleary St, Hamilton NSW 2303
Web: http://salvos.org.au/oasishunter/what-we-do/the-olive-branch-and-nourish-cafes/
Carers
Carer’s Assist
Carer Assist has Carer Advocates who provide individual support services, education and training for carers and families
of someone with a mental illness. They assist with:
Information: The provision of information about mental illness, services and the mental health system is
essential to ensure that carers' needs are met and to assist them to better care for their friend or relative.
Education: An important aspect of the Carer Advocate's role is to provide education to empower carers so that
their needs can be met.
Advocacy: Where appropriate, they advocate on behalf of carers to ensure that the carers have access to
information and services that they require.
Phone: 4968 9268
Web: http://www.sfnsw.org.au/
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Carers NSW is an association for relatives and friends caring for people with a disability, mental illness, drug and alcohol
dependencies, chronic condition, terminal illness or who are frail. For carers in NSW to have improved opportunities and
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Carers NSW
access to services that meet their needs regardless of their age, gender, circumstances, location or cultural and linguistic
backgrounds.
Phone: 1800 242 636, 9289 4280
Address: Suite 6, 235 Darby St Cooks Hill, NSW 2300
Web: http://www.carersnsw.asn.au
Young Carer Program (Carers NSW)
The Young Carer Program at Carers NSW was developed to make a positive difference to the lives of young carers and
their families. Young Carers are children and young people, 25 years or under, who help to support a family member or
friend who has a disability, mental illness, drug or alcohol dependency, chronic condition, terminal illness or who is frail.
The aims of service are to:
Promote the issues and needs of young carers through state-wide programs
Develop a young carer support network in partnership with relevant agencies, services and schools
Coordinate a variety of young carer activities in the short term
Support referrals to local services who can assist young carers and their families
Develop and distribute other appropriate resources
Review and evaluate existing support activities
The program supports young carers by:
Telephone support/information/referrals
Regular newsletters (quarterly and monthly editions)
Talk-link (Telephone group counselling)
Face-to-face counselling
Interactive young carer website
Development of regional networks
Community awareness and education
Phone: (02) 9280 4744
Web: www.youngcarersnsw.asn.au
Disability Services (Department of Education and Communities)
Disability Services was established to support individuals with disabilities and their carers, from early childhood to
training on the job. Information and resources for school students with special needs.
Phone: 02 4924 9999
website: http://www.dec.nsw.gov.au/contact-us/our-services/schools/disability-services
EDuCARE Support Service
EDuCARE is a unit of Hunter New England Area Health Service and provides information and support to Young Carers
aged 8 18 years of age helping to care for a sibling, parent, grandparent, other relative or friend who has a disability,
mental illness, chronic medical condition, drug and/or alcohol related condition or who is frail aged. Services include:
Information and referral to other services
Education workshops – stress management, practical caring skills, community resources, legal/financial issues
After school activities
Young carer one-day workshops and camps
Young carer forums
Phone: 4943 4444 or 1300 887 776
Address: Sky Central West, Level 3, 28 Smart Street, Charlestown NSW 2290
Web: http://www.educare.net.au
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Kinship Care is support for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Kinship Care runs peer support groups
and community forums, and offers information for grandparents on how they can access financial and legal assistance in
the event that they feel their grandchildren are receiving inadequate care. Current Kinship Care groups exist throughout
the Central Coast, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter and Mid North Coast regions.
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Kinship Care
Phone: 4922 1527
Address: 36 Warabrook Boulevard, Warabrook, NSW 2304
Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/kinship care grandparents as parents/
Community Centres
Connected Communities (formerly Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre)
Services that run from the Connected Communities site include:
Adolescent & Family Counselor
Community Development Project
Document Downloads
Families with Adolescents Support Project (FASP)
Financial Counseling
Hall Hire
Jesmond Neighbour Aid Service
Needle & Syringe Program
The Centre also provides a range of activities that include:
Computer Classes
Christian Fellowship
English Conversation and Playgroup
Heartmoves
Jesmond Learning Centre
Overeaters Anonymous
Playgroups
Shuffle & Slide (Silver Ridge Community Cottage)
Smocking Group
Toogee Taekwondo
Phone: 49798 555
Address: 44 Mordue Parade, Jesmond, NSW 2299
Web: http://www.jesmond.org.au
The Place Charlestown
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Other programs that utilise The Place facilities to run programs include the following. See The Place website for direct
links for more information regarding these programs:
Australian Breastfeeding Association
Feel Good Fitness or Mums
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The Place: Charlestown Community Centre aims to promote an inclusive, supportive, connected and resilient community.
The Place's mission is to nurture individuals and groups within the community to develop a variety of social, support and
educational activities that contribute to building community strength. Activities facilitated by the Place that are targeted
at youth include:
Study Space – this is the provision of homework and social support from volunteer mentors and also includes access
to ‘yourtutor’ and ‘SkillsBuilder’ online professional tutoring, study resources (computer, internet, printing facilities),
and information about career/further education pathways
Young parents group – free weekly group for parents in their teens and early twenties to meet, socialise and share
information, as well as access to parent education seminars and excursions. Transport assistance is available. The
program is hosted by Young Parents for Young Parents from 12:30-3pm Fridays.
Teens Place Social Club - A fun social group for High School Age children with High Functioning Autism and
Asperger's. Hosted on Friday nights from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, except in school holidays for $10 (includes dinner).
Eastlakes Youth Centre – Facilitation of a variety of youth-centred events/activities and informal mentoring in a
supportive and inclusive environment. Hosted by Youth Workers from 6:30-9pm Thursdays.
House – Facilitation of a variety of youth-centred events/activities and informal mentoring in a supportive and
inclusive environment. Hosted by Central Newcastle from 6:45pm Fridays during school terms.
C3 Youth – Facilitation of a variety of youth-centred events/activities and informal mentoring in a supportive and
inclusive environment. Hosted by C3 Victory from 5:30pm Sundays.
Young Parents Group
Birth and Parenting (Antenatal) Classes
Do Re Mi Music for Children
Immunisation Clinic
Little Kickers
Active Kids and Martial Arts
Cooking Classes for Little People
Eastlakes Youth Centre
Asperger’s Youth Group
Dementia Carer Support
C3 Church Victory
House
Phone: (02) 4032 5500
Address: Cnr Frederick & Pearson St’s (Entrance via Frederick St) Charlestown, NSW 2290
Web: http://www.theplacecharlestown.org.au
Youth with a Mission (YWAM) - Youth Street Teams
Youth Street Teams is a dynamic program offered every Saturday from 2:00-5:45pm, consisting of different Activity
Teams of adolescents aged 12 - 17. Participants pick teams based on interests or hobbies, with Teams offered including
Sports Team, Museart Team, Surf Team, Scoot Team, Skate Team and Dance Team. Each team leader plans 13 weeks of
activities for the duration of each school term.
Phone: (02) 4960 0777
Address: 28 Hanbury St Mayfield NSW 2304
Website: http://youth.st
Counselling
Lifeline
Programs facilitated by Lifeline include:
Free 24 hour telephone counselling services with core focuses on family and relationship issues, mental health
concerns, suicide prevention and support, abuse and violence, loneliness and life direction
Personal counselling sessions (clients are asked to pay a one off administration fee of $30, payable after the first
session, with the fee covering the cost of at least six counselling sessions)
Financial counselling
Suicide prevention with the three pronged approach to suicide prevention—Prevention, Intervention and
Postvention (Bereaved by Suicide);
Community training programs e.g. 'Building Personal Resilience to Manage Stress'
Phone: (02) 49402000
Address: 24a Bryant St, Tighes Hill, NSW 2297
Web: http://www.lifelinehunter.org.au/index.php/home
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Unifam provides counselling and mediation services for residents of the Hunter and Newcastle district. Services provided
include:
Mediation for separating couples
Individual post separation parenting counselling
Counselling for individuals and families including for family conflict, relationships, loss, grief, bereavement,
stress, depression, anger management
Family counselling to solve shared problems including behaviour, living as a step family, family rules, mediation
Resolution of family disputes including after separation
Counselling and support groups for men to help improve their relationships and parenting
Relationship education
Anger management
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Unifam Counselling and Mediation
Phone: (02) 4925600
Address: Level 3, 19 Bolton St, Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: www.unifamcounselling.org
Holyoake Hunter (Mercy Community Services)
Holyoake facilitates group programs for men and women who have drug, alcohol or gambling issues, and/or group
programs for family and friends of individuals who have drug, alcohol or gambling issues. Services are provided by
appointment only, Monday to Thursday, with fees discussed at initial interview. Holyoake accepts self-referral as well as
referral from external organisations, and caters for individuals from 12 years of age.
Phone: 4961 2686
Address: 32 Union St, Tighes Hill 2297
Web: www.mercyservices.org.au
Salvation Army Community Welfare Centre
The Salvation Army Community Welfare Centre supports vulnerable and at risk individuals and families through the
provision of clothing, food and furniture, as well as needs-based counselling services. Services are provided by
appointment only.
Phone: 4929 2300
Address: 96 Parry St, Newcastle West 2302
Web: www.salvos.org.au
Disability
Ability Links (St Vincent De Paul)
Ability Links assists people with disability, their families and carers to be valued and active members of their community.
They provide a locally based first point of contact designed to improve access to, and engagement in, local community,
mainstream services and disability services. Ability Links Coordinators will work with people with disability, their
families and carers to help plan for the future, build on their strengths and skills and develop networks in their own
communities to do what they want with their lives outside the traditional disability service system. This also includes
identifying appropriate education and employment pathways and accessing available support (i.e. health, financial,
mental health/wellbeing) Ability Links also work alongside communities and mainstream services, supporting them to
become more welcoming and inclusive
Phone: (02) 4905 0700 .
Web: www.vinnies.org.au
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Ability Options provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities living in Newcastle. These services bring
independence to the people with disabilities, enhance their lifestyles and allow the community to be enriched from
working, supporting, befriending and advocating for people with a disability. Specific services include:
Case management - provides support for people with a disability to live independently, to stay connected to their
local community and to access services and supports that may be required
Connecting Health program - team of psychologists and counsellors who will be able to assist in meeting the
needs of the client and their families
Employment – assists in sourcing sustainable jobs for people with a disability, and provision of employment,
training and long term job support services
Individualised funding program - provide a partnership to assist people with a disability and their families
manage individual funding packages.
Lifestyle Enrichment Program - provides quality training and recreational opportunities for people with a
disability
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Ability Options
Supported accommodation innovation fund – supports people with a disability to find appropriate housing and
receive appropriate supports (physical and personal)
Supported living services - assistance with independent living skills, Government services, community
engagement and respite
Transition to work program - assists school leavers with a disability to successfully transition into the work
force, education or further training.
Phone: (02) 4961 2979
Address: Suite 1/1 Tudor St, Hamilton, NSW 2302
Web: http://www.abilityoptions.org.au
Allambi Youth Services
Allambi delivers support through the following programs:
Intensive Residential Program
Disability Services (Lifemaps Program)
Foster Care Program
Counselling Program
Clinical and Health Services
Early Intervention Program
Work Experience Programs
Community Support Programs
Education and Development Programs
Consultation and Training Services
Phone: (02) 4944 5900
Address: 28 Fraser Parade, Newcastle NSW 2290
Web: www.allambi.org
Assisted school travel (students with special needs)
Transport services for students enrolled in special schools and support classes or placed in regular classes for students
who are mobility dependent.
Phone: 1300 338 278
Website: http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/studentsupport/programs/astp/index.php
Castle Personnel
Castle Personnel offers programs and services for adolescents and adults living with a disability, as well as people with
returning to work after a workplace injury/illness. Services include:
Workplace Rehabilitation Service – this program is dedicated to an outcome based return to employment (same
or new employer), after a workplace injury or illness.
Outplacement Service provides professional support and guidance to redundant employees who are in the
process of re-establishing their careers. This service includes provision of advice, assessment, reporting,
coaching, resources and support to achieve personal career goals.
JobReady Program – this is targeted towards school leavers, long term unemployed, people with injuries or
illness and people with disabilities for 12 years. JobReady involves a 12 week intensive program, focussing on
resume preparation, interview technique/networking and self-marketing, identification of training gaps and
training/skill development opportunities, and job seeking support
Phone: 4014 2222
Address: 242 Maitland Road, Mayfield NSW 2304
Web: http://www.castlepersonnel.com.au
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The main focus of Connectability Australia is to increase the capacity of people with a disability to access mainstream
services and activities and facilities. The service provides training and skill development activities via centre based and
community access programs, as well as provides out and about day programs for people with a disability. Services
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Connectability Australia Inc.
provided are via to clients who self-refer or are referred via DADHC and other supported agencies.
Phone: 4962 1000
Address: Units 3-4, 46 Hudson St, Hamilton 2303
Web: www.connectabilityaus.org.au
Disability Advocacy NSW
Disability Advocacy NSW’s core purpose is to ensure that people with a disability realise their legal rights in practice by
advocating with and for them. An advocate can provide individual advocacy and help get fair treatment in the following
areas:
Government departments, disability services, other services and businesses;
A work, university, school or TAFE;
With accommodation, transport and access;
With legal, healthcare or money issues.
Disability Advocacy has a support resource available for parents: ‘A Parent’s Toolkit: school issues for students with a
disability” by DA NSW Advocacy Coordinator Sonia Powazuk. The toolkit provides information on support funding,
discipline, WH&S issues, bullying and discrimination.
Phone: (02) 49270111, 1300 365 085
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Address: Suite 3, Level 1, 408 King Street, Newcastle West 2302
Web: http://da.org.au
Toolkit: http://da.org.au/wp content/uploads/A Parent%E2%80%99s Toolkit School issues for students with
disabilities v 1.1.pdf
Disability support and programs
The service is provided by the NSW Department of Education and Communities and provides support to individuals with
disabilities and their carers from early childhood to training on the job. Individuals can access information and resources
for school students with special needs via the website.
Regional Office - Hunter Central Coast
Phone: 02 4924 9999
website: http://www.dec.nsw.gov.au/contact-us/our-services/schools/disability-services
Families Supporting Families Inc
Families Supporting Families provides opportunities for families with children with special needs to exchange ideas,
information and experiences. Services include individualised case management as well as group programs.
Phone: 0417 431 562
Web: www.familiessupportingfamilies.com
Keyword Signs and Resource Centre (Line Drawings)
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Phone: 4921 6293
Address: Special Education Centre, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan 2308
Web: www.newcastle.edu.au/centre/sed/makaton
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This service is targeted towards clients with a need for augmentative communication programmes, specifically Makaton.
Makaton is a language program which uses key words signs and natural gesture to support communication as a means of
encouraging language development in children and adults with communication difficulties. A range of resources and
workshops are available to support people with disabilities and their families to build their communication skills using
this method.
LeapFrog Ability
LeapFrog ability provides rapid response, flexible support services to people and families living with a disability or who
are disadvantaged. Services provided by Leapfrog Ability include:
The Community Living Program - enables people with a disability to live independently in our community, and
assists them to access community organisations and services. It also provides training, social opportunities and
day to day support.
The Gym - provides fitness programs, advice on nutrition, personal hygiene and grooming as well as providing a
popular social venue for people living with an intellectual disability. Fee for Service support is also available.
Flexible Support Options - works to help people living with disability to live as independently as possible and to
reduce the potential for breakdown of supports such as family, friends, work and community access.
Host Family Care – provides individualised, planned respite or care in a home setting. Clients can access support
for one night, day to day support, or for extended periods of time.
Behavioural Intervention - helps solve the problems of challenging behaviour with a view to helping people live
well with others and participate in life as fully as they are able. The Behavioural Intervention Team consists of
Psychologists, interns, trainers and external consultants such as speech therapists, occupational therapists and
physiotherapists.
Phone: (02) 4979 7777
Address: 37 Fern St, Islington, NSW 2296
Web: http://www.leapfrog.org.au
Life without Barriers
Assist children and young people, people living with a disability, people living with a mental health issue and other
vulnerable persons to live safer and more enriched lives, and to support clients to participate in their community and
reach their personal goals. Main support services include:
Family Support and Out of Home Care – caring for vulnerable children and young people
Disability – fostering accessibility and ability
Mental Health – mental health support
Youth Justice – supporting young people to break the offending cycle
Refugees and Asylum Seekers – providing support to asylum seekers
Homelessness – providing a suite of intervention services and establishing connections
Phone: (02) 4033 4500
Address: 352 Kings St Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: http://www.lwb.org.au
Mai-Wel Group
The Mai-Wel Group is focused on developing opportunities that advance the lives of people with a disability, allow the
individual to realise their goals for life and provide access, integration and opportunity for all. Services provided by the
The Mai Wel Group include:
Supported employment
Supported residential living
Employment recruitment and support
Job skills training
Respite services
Community access programs
Accommodation Support Programs
Training Services
Day Activity Programs
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Phone: 4932 8599, 4943 5750
Address: 115a South Street, Telarah, NSW 2320
Suite 8 Hilltop Plaza 320 Charlestown Road, Charlestown, NSW
Web: http://www.maiwel.com.au
ParaQuad
ParaQuad NSW is a community organisation focused on supporting people with a spinal cord injury to achieve their
choices in life. Services include:
Free primary health care, including specialist spinal nursing, occupational therapy and social work services
Supported accommodation for people with transitional and long term care needs
Home based personal support care
Information, advocacy and assistance
Training and community awareness programs
Continence and related healthcare supplies
Phone: 4969 6388
Address: 65 The Avenue, Wickham 2293
Web: http://www.paraquad.org.au
University of Newcastle, Special Education Centre
The Special Education Centre provides a diverse range of programs and services targeted towards people with a
disability, their families/carers and individuals seeking to undertake Special Education training. Programs/services
include:
Special education teacher training
Early childhood intervention programs
Firstchance administration and parent support
Strengthening families program
Key Word Sign Resource Centre;
National Disability Coordination Officer
Phone: 4921 6275
Address: University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan 2308
Web: www.newcastle.edu.au/researchcentre/special-education/
Disadvantage
BCS Food 4 Life
BCS Food 4 Life provides vulnerable people experiencing disadvantage with access to nutritional food. Clients with a
Government benefit card register with the BCS Food 4 Life program and in return receive grocery products of their
choice (limit of 1 visit per day). BCS Food 4 Life centres offer a safe and welcoming environment, and the opportunity to
sit and chat with volunteers and friends while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee. Beyond providing much-needed food the
service acts as a connection point, opening doors to other physical, emotional and spiritual support services.
Wallsend site
Operating hours: Tuesday/Wednesday 12pm-3pm; Thursday/Friday 9:30am-3pm
Phone: 0432 757 077
Address: Wallsend Baptist Church, 58 Cowper Street
Web: www.bcs.org.au/lifecare/food4life.aspx
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LeapFrog ability provides rapid response, flexible support services to people and families living with a disability or who
are disadvantaged. Services provided by Leapfrog Ability include:
The Community Living Program - enables people with a disability to live independently in our community, and
assists them to access community organisations and services. It also provides training, social opportunities and
day to day support.
The Gym - provides fitness programs, advice on nutrition, personal hygiene and grooming as well as providing a
popular social venue for people living with an intellectual disability. Fee for Service support is also available.
Flexible Support Options - works to help people living with disability to live as independently as possible and to
reduce the potential for breakdown of supports such as family, friends, work and community access.
Host Family Care – provides individualised, planned respite or care in a home setting. Clients can access support
for one night, day to day support, or for extended periods of time.
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LeapFrog Ability
Behavioural Intervention - helps solve the problems of challenging behaviour with a view to helping people live
well with others and participate in life as fully as they are able. The Behavioural Intervention Team consists of
Psychologists, interns, trainers and external consultants such as speech therapists, occupational therapists and
physiotherapists.
Phone: (02) 4979 7777
Address: 37 Fern St, Islington, NSW 2296
Web: http://www.leapfrog.org.au
Salvation Army Community Welfare Centre
The Salvation Army Community Welfare Centre supports vulnerable and at risk individuals and families through the
provision of clothing, food and furniture, as well as needs-based counselling services. Services are provided by
appointment only.
Phone: 4929 2300
Address: 96 Parry St, Newcastle West 2302
Web: www.salvos.org.au
Material Aid
These are organisations that can provide assistance. These charitable organisations assist with lunches, vouchers, hot
meals, clothing or referrals
Life Church Soul Cafe
Hot meals Monday, Thursday 12.30pm - 1.30pm
Address: Wallsend Baptist Church, Cowper Street, Wallsend
Christ Church Cathedral
Hot meals every second Sunday at 12.30pm
Address: Cathedral Hall, Church Street, Newcastle
Newcastle City Church
Hot meals every Friday and Saturday 11.00pm -2.00am
Address: Cnr of Perkins Street, Hunter Street Mall Newcastle
Wesley Mission Oasis Centre
Food hampers/vouchers/petrol vouchers/clothing vouchers, scripts, energy and gas vouchers – Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday and Fridays, 9:00am – 11:00am
Phone: 49153628
Address: 16 Wood Street, Newcastle West
Christian Outreach Centre
Food Bank, minimal cost. 11:00am – 3:00pm Wednesday and Thursday
Address: 18 Albert Street Wickham
Salvation Army
BBQ 10:00am – 12:00pm Friday
Address: 67 Cleary Street, Hamilton
Stockton Anglican Church
Hot meals Wednesday 5:00pm
Address: Church Street, Stockton
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Baptist Church - Maycare
Drop in Café - 2 course meal for $2 or single meal $1.00, Wednesday 10:00am – 2:00pm
Address: 88 Hanbury Street, Mayfield
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Uniting Church
Hot Meals Sunday 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Address: Cnr Kerr and Highfields Sts Mayfield
Baptist Community Services
Food, support, referral outreach team. Night vision van on the streets on Wednesdays 4:00pm - 10.00pm, Friday,
Saturday and Sunday nights 9.00pm- - 2:00am
In the Newcastle area
Newcastle Care
Hot Meals Thursday 6.00pm - 7.00pm
(Service also provides counselling services, NIL loans, advocacy and referrals)
Phone: ( 02) 4969 2799
Address: 85 Tudor Street Hamilton
Samaritans
Food vouchers available
Phone: 4956 4200
Address: 187 Brunkder Rd Adamstown, or 131 Maitland Rd Mayfield
Catholicare
BBQ and sandwiches 5.00pm - 8.00pm Sunday
Address: Cadaga Road Park, Gateshead
Peter's Kitchen
Free community dinner and food hamper each Tuesday during school holidays at 7.00pm- 8.00pm
Phone: Lindsay Grave on 0414669828
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence line
The Domestic Violence Line is a statewide free call number and is available 24 hours, seven days a week. The Domestic
Violence Line provides telephone counselling, information and referrals for women and same sex partners who are
experiencing or have experienced domestic violence. Trained female caseworkers are sensitive to the needs of people
who have experienced domestic violence. Domestic Violence Line staff are aware of the special needs of Aboriginal
women and women from other cultures, as well as those living in rural and remote areas. Interpreters and TTY can be
arranged where necessary to ensure that all people, regardless of their language or disability can use the service. The
service has an extensive list of contacts, people and services across NSW who can help. The Domestic Violence Line
makes referrals to women's refuges and provides overview of services available. It also makes referrals to family support
services, counselling, the police and courts, lawyers and hospitals. It helps with transport, emergency accommodation
and other relevant support.
Phone: 1800 656 463
Nova
Nova provides affordable, transitional, supported accommodation to:
Women who are affected by domestic violence and/or homelessness
Single women with children
Single women without children
Women attempting to have their children restored to their care
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Phone: 40235620
Address: 558 Hunter Street Newcastle, NSW 2303
Web: http://www.novawaas.org.au/
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Nova requires participants to have regular visits with their support worker who can provide:
Information and resources
Counselling
Court Support
Advocacy with government and referral to other agencies
Assistance to find exit accommodation
Newcastle Domestic Violence Resource Centre
Newcastle Domestic Violence Resource Centre supports victims of Domestic Violence by providing information, support
and referrals to a range of other services including housing and counselling services. Fees: None
Phone: 4927 8527
Address: Joy Cummings Centre, 62 Scott St, Newcastle 2300
Web: http://www.domesticviolencenewcastle.com.au
Warlga Ngurra Women and Children's Refuge
Crisis accommodation for Aboriignal and Torres Strait Islander women and children escaping from domestic violence
Phone: 1800 65 64 63 for referral and address; (02) 4950 1566
Drugs
Newcastle Bridge Youth and Family (NBYF)
This program has been designed to help young people aged between 12 25 and their families, within the Hunter Region,
address barriers or issues relating to drug and alcohol use. The program operates through a referral system. Young
people can either self-refer or be referred by other agencies. Alternatively young people can be referred by phone. Once a
referral is received, clients are contacted within 24 hours and an initial appointment is organised for a caseworker to
meet with the client. At this initial appointment a ‘needs assessment’ is conducted and a case plan implemented.
NBYF also provides drug and alcohol education workshops to the community. Workshops are offered to local high
schools, TAFE NSW, other youth services. These workshops can be custom designed to fit the needs of the group. A Drug
and Alcohol Awareness course is also available to young people who have legal matters resulting from substance use.
These referrals can be made from Juvenile Justice, Probation and Parole, Legal Aid or court chaplains.
For families, parents, husbands, wives, partners or siblings who are suffering the effects of Drug and Alcohol use within
the family environment, NBYF provides crisis support, interventions and ongoing follow up support.. A 5 week parent
support group is also run throughout the year.
Phone: 4969 8066
Address: 67 Cleary St HAMILTON NSW 2303
Web: http://salvos.org.au/oasishunter/what-we-do/bridge-youth-family-drug-and-alcohol-support-program/
Education
Abstudy Team Hunter (Department of Human Services)
One-on-one support to determine eligibility and aid in claiming and managing Abstudy payments. Abstudy is available for
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are enrolled in an approved course or apprenticeship, and not receiving
any other government assistance to study or do an apprenticeship or traineeship.
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Aboriginal education and training
Service provided by the NSW Department of Education and Communities, the Aboriginal education and training service
provides support, leadership, advocacy and advice about education and training for Aboriginal students and
communities.
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Phone: 132 317
Address: Local Centre link Office, 279 King St, Newcastle West 2302
Mail to: PO Box 5156, Hunter Region MC 2310
Web: http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/abstudy
Phone: 9244 5393
Adult Migrant English Program (TAFE NSW)
Language and literacy tuition for newly-arrived migrants across metropolitan and rural centres
Phone: 4930 2954
Address: Maitland Rd, Tighes Hill 2297
Assisted school travel (students with special needs)
Transport services for students enrolled in special schools and support classes or placed in regular classes for students
who are mobility dependent.
Phone: 1300 338 278
Website: http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/studentsupport/programs/astp/index.php
Dynamic Alternative Learning Environment (D.A.L.E.)
D.A.L.E. caters for students in Years 5 – 10 who, due to emotional/behaviour problems and/or disability have difficulty
coping with mainstream school life and culture.
Phone: (02) 4949 2929
Address: 98 Georgetown Rd, Waratah NSW 2298
Web: http://www.spcc.nsw.edu.au/
DALE – Young Mother’s Program
DALE Christian School is for students who have difficulty staying engaged in mainstream accredited education. The
Young Mothers’ part of DCS is a welcoming environment where young women (teenagers) who have a child, or who are
expecting one, continue their education in a highly flexible environment. An onsite crèche, run by professional child care
workers, is available for children up to 3 years.
Phone: 4949 2929
Address: 98 Georgetown Rd, Waratah NSW 2298
Web: http://www.spcc.nsw.edu.au
Hunter Community College (HCC)
HCC is a not for profit community based provider of adult learning and is a Nationally Accredited Registered Training
Organisation (RTO) Courses and workshops include: photography, sport & fitness, living and working sustainably,
personal enrichment i.e. art, painting, craft, music, cooking, gardening, DYI and relaxation. Languages as well as
vocational and business related courses like computing, finance, public speaking, marketing, medical, keyboarding, and
small business management. Department of Human Services (Centrelink) funds places in vocational courses if
participants meet eligibility criteria.
Phone: 4952 9115
Address: Cnr Cameron St and Lambton Rd, Broadmeadow 2292
Web: www.hcc.nsw.edu.au
Phone: 4970 5407
Address: Morisset High School, Bridge Street, Morisset, NSW
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The centre promotes Aboriginal Studies. School visits are encouraged and a large meeting room is available for booking
for community meetings. The Centre promotes Aboriginal Education to its school and community for both Aboriginal and
non-Aboriginal students and community members.
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Itji Marru Aboriginal Resource Centre
WEA Equity Centre
The WEA Equity Centre conducts English Language, Literacy and Numeracy courses, including Certificates in Spoken and
Written English, Learners Licence Preparation, Essay Writing and Study Skills. These courses are designed to cater for
people who were unable to achieve their learning goals due to limited language, literacy and/or numeracy skills.
Phone: 4926 1113
Address: 100 Laman St, Cooks Hill 2300
Web: www.weahunter.com.au
WEA Hunter – Links to Learning Programs
Links to Learning is an education program designed for 15-24 year olds who haven’t completed their HSC. The program
assists students to develop skills ready to gain employment, complete schooling, or move into the Vocational Education
and Training (VET) sector. The Links to Learning program is designed to get participants back onto a pathway to further
education, training or employment in an adult learning context.
The components of the program include ‘General preparation’ (literacy, numeracy), ‘My future’ (goal setting and problem
solving), ‘Life skills’, ‘My business’ (technology and OH&S), and ‘My community’ (education to employment pathways).
Phone: 49254200, 49261113
Address 100 Laman St, Cooks Hill 2300
Family Services
Community Activities Lake Macquarie Incorporated (CALM)
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, Drumbeat program
and Out of School Hours care programs.
Phone: (02) 4950 3888
Address: 111 The Boulevard Toronto, NSW 2283
Web: http://calm.org.au
Catholicare
Catholicare services include:
Residential accommodation
In home support
Respite and independent living for older persons
Child and family services - Counselling, foster care, adoption services; 'Brighter Futures' program; 'Fatherhood
and Parenting' program, marriage education
Youth and community services - Youth accommodation, youth support, mental health support
Disability services
Teen crisis accommodation
Phone: 49791120 49791307
Address: 841 Hunter St, Newcastle West NSW 2300; 50 Crebert Street, Mayfield
Web: www.catholiccare.org.au
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A free suicide prevention group aimed at helping fathers/male carers cope with the demands of parenting, establish and
maintain own mental health and wellbeing. The structured environment provides support to men going through the
trauma of divorce, separation or relationship breakdown, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Support provided through
support Groups (held weekly on Wednesdays at 7:30pm), as well as one on one support.
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Dads in Distress
Phone: 6652 8113 (Office) or 1300853437 (24 our Helpline support)
Address: Elizabeth St, Tighes Hill NSW 2297
Web: www.dadsindistress.asn.au
Department of Community Services
Community Services (formerly DoCS) is the leading NSW Government agency responsible for community services. It
works to promote the safety and wellbeing of children and young people and to build stronger families and communities.
In particular, it helps those who are vulnerable and most in need, to protect children and young people from risk of harm
and to provide care for children and young people who are not able to live with their families.
The Child Protection Helpline: (132 111) is a 24 hour statewide telephone service that allows you to report suspected
child abuse or neglect.
Phone: 4985 1500; 4958 0600
Address: 309 Charlestown Rd Charlestown, NSW 2290
720 Main Rd Edgeworth, NSW 2285
Web: http://www.community.nsw.gov.au/welcome_to_docs_website.html
Department of Human Services (DHS)
The DHS encompasses Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support, and delivers social and health related payments and
services for:
Families
Separated parents
Job seekers
Students and trainees
Carers
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Older Australians
People with disability
Migrant, refugees and visitors
Phone: 132 468
Mayfield office: 188 - 194 Maitland Rd, Mayfield NSW 2304
Kotara office: 1012A/13A, Westfield, 89 Park Avenue Kotara NSW 2289
Newcastle Combined Services Centre (Medicare/Child Support/Centrelink) Ground Floor, 279 King Street, Newcastle
NSW 2300
Web: http://www.humanservices.gov.au
Family Planning
Family Planning provides specialised services and programs, and advocate promoting the reproductive and sexual health
and rights of for men and women of all ages from all cultural backgrounds. The range of professional and confidential
reproductive and sexual health services include:
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Phone: (02) 49294485
Address: 15-19 Queen St, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
Web: www.fpnsw.org.au
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Information on all forms of contraception for men and women;
Checks and treatment for Sexually Transmissible Infections (Sties);
HIV/AIDS tests and information;
Pap tests and breast awareness;
Implanon (contraceptive implant);
Pregnancy tests;
Post natal checks;
Advice and information about pregnancy, preconception, menopause, infertility, sterilisation, and premenstrual
tension;
Written information on reproductive and sexual health (in some languages other than English)
Families Supporting Families Inc
Families Supporting Families provides opportunities for families with children with special needs to exchange ideas,
information and experiences. Individualised support is available, as well as organised group-based programs.
Phone: 0417 431 562
Web: www.familiessupportingfamilies.com
Family Referral Services (FRS)
FRS assist children, young people, and families who do not meet the statutory threshold for child protection intervention,
but would benefit from accessing specific services to address current problems, prevent escalation, and foster a
protective and nurturing environment. FRS are intended to link vulnerable children, young people in need of assistance,
and their families, with the most appropriate support services in the local area.
Phone: 1300 006 480
Web: http://www.bensoc.org.au/director/whatwedo/familyreferralservicenewcastleregion.cfm
Family Relationship Centre
The Family Relationship Centre provides free information, assessment and referral including child focused family dispute
resolution (mediation) which can be accessed by parents, grandparents and significant others involved in the lives of
children.
Phone: (02) 4016 0566
Address: 495 Hunter Street, Newcastle, NSW 2300
Web: www.familyrelationship.gov.au
Families with Adolescents Support (Connected Communities Inc.)
The Families with Adolescents Program is targeted towards adolescents and their families, and provides family
counselling and mediation, parent information and education workshops, referral and advocacy to/for other support
networks and services.
Phone: 4979 8504
Address: 44 Mordue Pde, Jesmond 2299
Mail to: PO Box 36, Jesmond 2299
Hunter Oasis – Support, Outreach and Specialist intervention
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Counselling, advocacy, support and referral by qualified experienced counsellors and youth workers
Outreach via the outreach training unit (OURSPACE) which is designed to offer accredited training to isolated
communities as well as outreach activities, information and referral.
Drug and alcohol: Qualified staff assist young people with drug and alcohol issues, and provide referral to
specialist services.
Mental Health: Oasis Hunter staff work closely with Community Mental Health offering support, counselling and
referral
Life Skills programs such as:
o Fusion skills for life: Covers subjects such as sexual harassment, career planning, budgeting, legal issues,
health and personal safety, relationships, positive communication, resume development, tenancy issues,
conflict resolution and rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
o Inner Pyrotechnics: Oasis Hunter runs group courses for boys and young men. Individual anger
management is also available for young men and young women aged 12 to 25 years, aiming to enable
young people to better understand and manage their emotions
Literacy/ Numeracy tuition: Trained volunteers are available to assist young people with literacy and numeracy
tasks e.g. filling in forms, completing training theory units, writing letters and resumes
Parent /Carer Workshops, such as and phone support to parents and carers
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Hunter Oasis provides support, outreach and specialist intervention, including:
AOD Family Support – For families, carers, partners or siblings who are suffering the effects of Drug and Alcohol
within the family environment. Family Support Works offer crisis support, interventions and ongoing follow up
Access to a work wardrobe of interview and work clothes, job seeking activities and assistance, a library of
resources and information about services
Phone: 49698066
Address: 67 Cleary St HAMILTON NSW 2303
Web: http://salvos.org.au/oasishunter
Interrelate Family Services
Interrelate Family Services aims to:
Promote the wellbeing of people of all ages and empower them to make positive choices in life
Help people establish and strengthen relationships, and manage change and conflict safely
Help families of all types to raise children
Strengthen people’s connections to their communities
Influence community attitudes
Services include:
Counselling for individuals and couples
Family therapy – including child inclusive practice where appropriate
Family and relationship education and skills training
Services for children, adolescents, parents and grandparents
Mediation and Family Dispute Resolution, including specific services for separating families
Specialised Family Safety Programs,
Children’s Contact Services,
Parenting Orders Program
Aftercare services for young people leaving care
Special programs for humanitarian entrants and Forgotten Australians.
Phone: 40160550
Address: 364 Kings St Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: http://www.interrelate.org.au/pages/centres/newcastle and hunter region.php
Newcastle Family Support Services (NFSS)
NFSS promotes and advocates the wellbeing of individuals, families and communities, through the provision of services
to families with children, who are experiencing ongoing hardship. Services include:
Counselling and individual assistance either in the home or at a centre
Therapeutic group programs with associated child development activities
Community work
Phone: 4926 3577
Address: 558 Hunter Street Newcastle West NSW 230
Web: http://www.nfss.org.au/default.htm
Koti Bula Umullan Project
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Phone: (02) 4926 3577
Address: 558 Hunter Street Newcastle West NSW 2302
Web: http://www.nfss.org.au/default.htm
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Koti Bula Umullan Project provides services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents, families and their children.
The Koti Bula Umullan Project Family worker provides home or centre based counselling, parenting support information.
Parents/carers can also access supported playtime group, information, advocacy and referral provided by Aboriginal
workers.
Newcastle University Family Action Centre
The Family Action Centre exists to strengthen families and communities by developing and implementing programs,
research, training and creating models of practice that promote sustainability, social justice and community leadership.
Based at the University of Newcastle, NSW. With a vision for a 'Truly Civil Society', The Family Action Centre is a national
leader in strengthening families and communities. Programs facilitated at the Family Action Centre include:
Home-Start – supports families (with at least one child under five years) through the provision of one-on-one
practical support and friendship to families though regular home visits
SNUG – provides retreats for families caring for children with rare health conditions
Hunter Outreach Project – mobile support service offering a range of activities and assistance to families
Deadly Dad’s project – aims to improve both father and child outcomes by providing specific, culturally
appropriate support to Indigenous fathers which enhances their fathering experience, strengthens their
fathering knowledge and skills and promotes a positive self-image for Aboriginal men who have current and
future parenting responsibilities.
The Family Action Centre also provides parent education resource materials and workshops, and advocacy and referral
to external support services.
Phone: 02 4921 6403; 4921 6858
Address: University Drive University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308
Web: http://www.newcastle.edu.au/centre/fac
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia aims to:
Promote the wellbeing of people of all ages and empower them to make positive choices in life
Help people establish and strengthen relationships, and manage change and conflict safely
Help families of all types to raise children
Strengthen people’s connections to their communities
Influence community attitudes.
Services include:
Counselling for individuals and couples
Family therapy – including child inclusive practice where appropriate
Family and relationship education and skills training;
Services for children, adolescents, parents and grandparents
Mediation and Family Dispute Resolution, including specific services for separating families
Specialised Family Safety Programs
Children’s Contact Services
Parenting Orders Program
Aftercare services for young people leaving care and special programs for humanitarian entrants and Forgotten
Australians.
Phone: (02) 49491599
Address: 4- 6 Heddon Road, Broadmeadow, NSW 2292
Web: http://www.nsw.relationships.com.au
Legacy
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Phone: 4968 9501
Address: Unit 1 /205 207 Maitland Road Mayfield, NSW 2304
Web: http://www.legacy.com.au/newcastle/NewcastleLegacy
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Legacy is comitted to the care of war widows and the nurturing of children of war widows, by:
Providing advice and assistance, accommodation, medical and social support
Helping to prepare claims for pensions and other benefits
Providing specialist assistance with submitting applications for Compensation for Dependents of Deceased
Members and Former Members, including the War Widow's Pensions and Income Support Pensions
Supporting clients with financial commitments
Providing companionship, helping with children's education, ensuring medical and welfare services are available
and providing counseling
Wallsend Family Support Service (Newcastle Family Support Services Inc.)
Wallsend Family Support Service provides personal support, counselling and education for families at risk. Its aim is to
prevent family breakdown. Offers both one-on-one support sessions with individuals, as well as offers family and group
activities.
Phone: 4951 6532
Address: 7 Alexander St, Wallsend 2287
Gay and Lesbian
ACON Health
The main aim of ACON is to promote the health and wellbeing of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender persons, people
living with HIV/AIDS, sex workers and injecting drug users. ACON also provides information and support for people at
risk of or affected by HIV, including sex workers, people who use drugs and the family and/or carers of people with HIV.
ACON facilitates HIV prevention programs for the groups most at risk of HIV transmission - gay men, sex workers and
people who inject drugs, such as the Needle and Syringe program and Safe-Sex Packs. For people with HIV, their families
and carers, ACON provides a broad range of health promotion and support services. In the area of policy and advocacy,
ACON provides advice on issues related to HIV and human rights. They also provide education, support and
advocacy/referral for other health issues for the community such as:
Sexual health
Mental health
Alcohol and other drug use
Ageing
Homophobic violence
Domestic violence
Counselling
Community care
Housing and home-based care
Workplace Equality
Holistic health (vitamin service)
Phone: 4927 6808
Address: 129 Maitland Rd, Islington 2296
Web: www.acon.org.au
Gay and Lesbian Counselling Service (GLCS)
GLCS provides short term counselling, information and support services to facilitate healthy well-adjusted lives within
the lesbian, gay and related communities.
Services include:
Counselling and support groups
Information
Education and training
Volunteer opportunities
Phone: 8594 9500
Telephone counselling contact number: 1800 18 4527
Lesbian Counselling & Information Line: 1800 14 452
Web: www.glcsnsw.org.au
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Karumah is committed to enriching the lives of people living with HIV through sustainable health outcomes and
enhanced quality of life, and to empower people living with HIV to better self-manage their chronic condition through a
combination of self-managed and group programs. Services provided include:
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Karumah Positive Living Centre
Drop in centre for people who are HIV positive, their carers and families
Advocacy and referral service to external organisations
Informal mentoring and group support
Organised social activities and events
Meal provision (Tuesday/Thursday)
Phone: 4940 8393
Address: 2A Lawson St, Hamilton 2303
Web: www.karumah.com.au
Pacific Clinic Newcastle Sexual Health Service (HNE Health) (Sexual Health Clinic Royal Newcastle Hospital)
The Pacific Clinic provides screening and treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C.
It also provides free condoms and other protective items, and provides self-referral and referral based counselling
sessions. and counselling services available. Translators are available by appointment for interpretive services.
Phone: 4016 4536
Address: Level 2, 670 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300P
Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG)
The main aim of PFLAG is to keep families together, and to assist in maintaining supportive, caring and loving
relationships between families and their gay family members. PFLAG provides support and information to families,
friends of all gay people and gay people themselves, and conduct a number of activities aimed at supporting members,
including:
Monthly support meetings to discuss member issues and concerns.
Guest speakers and education workshops conducted by professionals in their field to discuss topics of interest to
the members.
Provision of a safe, friendly place where participants can talk freely and openly. All meetings are confidential to
the participants.
Resource library of books, videos, pamphlets, and articles to help educate parents and others on issues of
homosexuality.
Monthly newsletter and provide an information telephone line.
Advocacy and referral to external community/health organisations and services
Phone: (02) 9874 3624
Rainbow Visions
The aims of Rainbow Visions Hunter Inc. is to build and maintain a strong LGBTIQ community in the Newcastle and
Hunter Regions, and enhance the experience of all LGBTIQ people by hosting social events, forums, educational seminars
and providing a social network for people in this area. Rainbow Visions also acts as an advocacy service to link members
with relevant community and health organisations within the community.
Phone: 0402756842
http://www.rainbowvisions.org.au
Grandparents as Carers
Kinship Care
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Phone: 4960 7100; 4922 1527
Address: 32 Brunker Road, Broadmeadow NSW 2292
Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/kinship-care-grandparents-as-parents/
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Kinship Care is support for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Kinship Care runs peer support groups
and community forums, and offers information for grandparents on how they can access financial and legal assistance in
the event that they feel their grandchildren are receiving inadequate care.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren NSW (GRG NSW)
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren NSW (GRG NSW) is a resource for grandparents, relatives and kinship carers
providing timely and useful information on services, networks, tips, stories and support available to carers.
Phone: 1800 449102; 0429 914 553 (Karen)
Web: http://www.raisinggrandchildren.com.au/default.aspx
Grands Raising Kids
The Grands Raising Kids organisation was establish to provide information and support for grandparents and relatives
(kinship carers), caring for children who are unable to live with their parents. Grands Raising Kids also work to raise
community and government awareness of the needs of the children and their carers. The website is designed to be used
as a resource for support material, links to appropriate organisations/services, advice on accessing support (including
financial), and a forum to discuss prevalent issues and share concerns.
Phone: (02) 49735016
Web: http://www.grands-raising-kids.org.au
Health
GP Access After Hours
GP Access provides comprehensive after hours primary medical care, provide relevant practice support and offer
patients access to services that fill gaps in the health care system. The services provided include:
Telephone support to determine appropriate course of action if you or someone you know has a medical
problem
GP clinics available for all patients who are unwell or injured and for whom care is necessary prior to the next
working day
Home visits where a clinic appointment is inappropriate or difficult due to other circumstances.
Assistance with transport where getting to a clinic is a barrier to obtaining medical assistance
Phone: Triage and advice line - 1300 130 147; Admin - 4925 2259
Address: Calvary Mater Newcastle, Edith St, Waratah NSW 2298
Web: http://www.huml.com.au/
Karumah Positive Living Centre
Karumah is committed to enriching the lives of people living with HIV through sustainable health outcomes and
enhanced quality of life, and to empower people living with HIV to better self-manage their chronic condition through a
combination of self-managed and group programs. Services provided include:
Drop in centre for people who are HIV positive, their carers and families
Advocacy and referral service to external organisations
Informal mentoring and group support
Organised social activities and events
Meal provision (Tuesday/Thursday)
Phone: 4940 8393
Address: 2A Lawson St, Hamilton 2303
Web: www.karumah.com.au
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The Newcastle Community Health Centre is the location of a number of health services, with the aim of a communitybased setting and co-location of services being to improve health care service delivery, improved accessibility for
patients, and a lower cost of health care. Services located at the Newcastle Community Health Services include:
After hours GP service
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Newcastle Community Health Centre (Hunter New England Health)
Community health and nursing services
Counselling services (family conflict, mediation, relationships, grief, loss, bereavement, change, stress, abuse,
sexuality, separation and conflict resolution, gambling)
Dental services
Diabetes education centre
Drug and alcohol services
Education and health promotion
Family planning
Oral health services
Podiatry services
Community acute/post-acute services (CAPAC)
Community mental health services
Central intake call centre
Ambulatory care (outpatient clinics)
Rehabilitation therapy services
HealthLink (24-hour general information service) - 1800 063 635
Healthdirect Australia (free 24-hour telephone health advice line staffed by Registered Nurses to provide expert health
advice) - 1800 022 222 (
Mental health line (24-hour emergency) - 1800 011 511
General - 02 4921 3000
Email: [email protected] “
Address: 670 Hunter St, Newcastle West NSW 230
Web:
http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/services_and_facilities/community_health_services/newcastle_community_health_ce
ntre2
West Newcastle Community Health Services Wallsend
The West Newcastle Community Health Centre is the location of a number of health services, with the aim of a
community-based setting and co-location of services being to improve health care service delivery, improved
accessibility for patients, and a lower cost of health care. Services include:
Aged care assessment team
Continence clinic and nurse consultant
Dementia clinical nurse consultant
Drug and alcohol counselling
Foot care clinic with foot care nurses and podiatrist
Home nursing service
Nutrition with dietician
Physiotherapy for house bound clients
Psychology
Social work
Speech pathology
Referrals are to be made to the Referral and Information Centre (RIC): Phone number: 4924 2590
Phone: 49246100
Address: 15 Nash Street, Wallsend NSW 2287
Web:
http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/services_and_facilities/community_health_services/west_newcastle_community_heal
th_centre_-_wallsend
Phone: 4016 4536
Address: Level 2, 670 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300P
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The Pacific Clinic provides screening and treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C.
It also provides free condoms and other protective items, and provides self-referral and referral based counselling
sessions. Translators are available by appointment for interpretive services.
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Pacific Clinic Newcastle Sexual Health Service (HNE Health) (Sexual Health Clinic Royal Newcastle Hospital)
Hunter Women’s Centre
Hunter Women’s Centre is run by women for women, prioritising services to women who are marginalised, experiencing
disadvantage or having difficulty in accessing services elsewhere. Staff at the Hunter Women's Centre are experienced
and qualified, and work from a holistic perspective which considers all aspects of a woman's health and wellbeing, with
core focuses of:
Domestic and family violence and abuse
Emotional issues including self-esteem, depression, anxiety and stress
Relationship issues including the promotion of healthy and supportive relationship
Lifestyle risk factors for women (smoking, alcohol and other drugs).
Services available include:
Information and referral
Counselling
Casework - Casework assists women in accessing appropriate accommodation, resolving financial issues, dealing
with government departments and agencies as well as employment and training support. Casework services
include outreach, advocacy, personal support, life skills, achievable goal setting, resource provision and referrals
to external support organisations
Therapeutic and support groups
Workshops (focus areas include domestic violence, self-esteem, communication and assertiveness, and personal
boundaries)
Advocacy, outreach and community education.
Legal advice on matters relating to Family Law
Complimentary health therapies and activities (e.g. Thai Chi)
Phone: (02) 4968 2511
Address: Cnr Avon Street & Industrial Drive, Mayfield 2304
Web: http://www.hwc.org.au
Housing
Back on Trac
Youth accommodation service that provides medium term (6 months) accommodation for young people aged 16 -18 who
are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Back on Trac Outreach provides accommodation for up to 12 months for young
people between 16 25 through three separate accommodation options and outreach support.
Phone: 4991 6878
Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/back-on-trac/
Catholicare
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Phone: 49791120 49791307
Address: 841 Hunter St, Newcastle West NSW 2300; 50 Crebert Street, Mayfield
Web: www.catholiccare.org.au
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Catholicare services include:
Residential accommodation
In home support
Respite and independent living for older persons
Child and family services - Counselling, foster care, adoption services; 'Brighter Futures' program; 'Fatherhood
and Parenting' program, marriage education
Youth and community services - Youth accommodation, youth support, mental health support
Disability services
Teen crisis accommodation
Compass Housing
Compass Housing provides secure and affordable housing and delivers housing products for disadvantaged people who
have difficulties sourcing adequate and affordable housing .It also delivers the GROW Program – assists clients to achieve
self-reliance, contribute to solutions and participate in outcomes that affect them as individuals and ensure they are
actively participating as members of the community. The GROW program increases tenants’ awareness of and
participation in:
Health and nutrition programs
Esteem and wellbeing programs
Community contribution, economic participation and generational advancement
Sustainable living practices
Factors impacting on security of tenure
A component of this program is the Grow a Star initiative, which aims to encourage generational change by enabling
children and youth access to sporting, music and academic activities and mentors.
Phone: 49295537
Address: 485 Hunter St Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: http://www.compasshousing.org
House of Hospitality
The House of Hospitality is an accommodation unit for those people who find themselves homeless or in unsuitable
accommodation. The concept of the house is one of community living, whereby the people that choose to live at the
facility are expected to support and encourage each other, with the aim to help individuals regain confidence, take
control of their lives, and make positive life choices and transition to independent living. Residents are encouraged to
join a day program or become involved in job skill programs, voluntary work, or attend local playgroups with their
children. The house is a drug and alcohol free zone. It is not a crisis unit. Priority is given to the following groups of
people:
Fathers with children
Adults who have completed a detoxification program
Adults who are homeless due to marriage breakdown or eviction
Mothers with children who do not meet the domestic violence criteria of the Women's Refuge Movement
Community membership is given to one asylum seeker each year
Phone: (02) 4940 0623
Address: 125 Broadmeadow Rd, Broadmeadow, NSW 2292
Web : http://www.newcastlecatholic.org.au/page28323/House-of-Hospitality.aspx
Kirinari Hostel Newcastle
Provides short-term boarding accommodation for Aboriginal males attending high school in the Hunter Region
Phone: 4943 4362
Address: 15 Myall Road, GARDEN SUBURB, 2289, NSW
Web: www.ahl.gov.au
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Newcastle Youth Accommodation Services have crisis, medium term and semi-independent accommodation.:
Clarendene House is a crisis accommodation support service which provides 24 hour supported crisis
accommodation. Clarendene House can accommodate six residents between the ages of 15 and 21 years
depending on need and risk assessments. Residents can stay at Clarendene House for up to three months,
depending on needs. Young people between 12 and 14 years are also considered with appropriate referrals and
support from Community Services.
The Embassy is a medium term youth accommodation service designed to meet the needs of homeless young
people of the Newcastle LGA. The semi-independent living program can accommodate up to thirteen young
people between the ages of 15 and 21 years where the emphasis is on the young person being able to live
independently with case management and support.
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Newcastle Community Youth Accommodation Service
Phone: (02) 49512144
Address: 18 Harris Street, Wallsend, NSW 2287
Web: http://www.nyasl.org
Oasis Youth Network (Salvation Army)
The Oasis Youth Network provides homeless and disadvantaged young people hope, help and opportunities to access
relevant education, training, jobs, counselling, and drug/alcohol programs. The service also provides counselling to assist
young people to better understand themselves and their relationships. The Bridge Youth and Family Program has been
designed to help young people 12 25 and their families address barriers or issues relating to drug and alcohol use.
Individual anger management counselling is available for people 12 - 25 and aims to enable young people to better
understand and manage their emotions. Information and referral for young people in areas such as legal issues, court
support and seeking accommodation is also available. Programs/services include:
Mental Health Reconnect
Helping Young People Achieve
'Choices'
'Friday Freeway'
Young Parents Program
Drop in Centre
Chaplain's Outreach
Outreach Fitness Centre.
Phone: 49698066
Address: 116 120 Hannell Street Wickham NSW 2293
Web: http://salvos.org/oasishunter
Samaritans
The Samaritan organisation provides effective and professional social welfare services within a community development
framework, with particular regard to those marginalised through disability, injustice, intolerance and lack of opportunity
Samaritans Youth Services provides services for young people between 12 and 25 years who are at risk or seeking
assistance and support including:
Accommodation
Individual outreach/case management
Group work
Family mediation
Out of home care
Employment services
Early intervention
After school activities
Phone: (02) 4960 7100, 1300 656 336
Address: 36 Warabrook Boulevard Warabrook NSW 2304
Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au
Youthdirect (Samaritans)
Youthdirect supports young people who are currently experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Service provides work
and development orders, that arranges an alternate way to pay fines, free internet and phone usage, outreach at Windale
Cottage and Woodrising Youth Centre, Drop in Facilities for information and referral in accessing Youth Services.
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Phone: 1800 171 800
Web: www.samaritans.org.au
Justice and Legal
Children’s Court Assistance Scheme
Provides legal information, court support and referral for young people appearing before the Children's Court for
criminal matters
Phone: 1800 650 073
Community Justice Centres (CJCs)
CJCs are available to help resolve conflicts and disputes involving individuals, families, neighbours and clans, schools,
workplace and money matters. A trained mediator will work with each party to ensure each party has an opportunity to
express their opinion in a respectful environment and help people come to an agreement/resolution. Should an
agreement not be achieved, the mediator will discuss options and available services to support resolution.
Community Justice Centre – Mediation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Specialised services and support are offered to people of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, including:
Senior Aboriginal Programs Officer – staff are available to visit individuals, families, group, community or
organisation to give a presentation on CJC services, conduct conflict management and dispute resolution
Trained Aboriginal mediators providing community conflict management support
Phone: 1800 990 777, 4925 0333
Address: Cnr Church & Bolton Streets, Newcastle, NSW 2300
Web: http://www.cjc.nsw.gov.au/cjc/com_justice_index.html
Hunter Community Legal Centre
The Hunter Community Legal Centre provides free legal advice by phone and via their outreach centre to people who
live, work or study in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Great Lakes and Hunter Valley regions. The service also
provides Family Law programs and a range of resource materials, including general law fact sheets and family law
factsheets. The service also provides community legal education programs, and engages in law reform activities relevant
to the needs of its clients.
Phone: (02) 4040 9120; 1800 650 073
Web: http://www.hunterclc.com.au
Legal Aid NSW
Legal Aid NSW provides legal services to disadvantaged clients in most areas of criminal, family and civil law. Services
include:
Fee confidential face to face legal advice on most legal issues
Legal representation for eligible clients, provided through duty services and case grants for ongoing
representation
Family dispute resolution services to parties in a family law dispute
Free workshops about the law for the public and community organisations
Free legal information written in plain English to help people resolve their legal problems
Specialist services for particular groups in the community
Legal Aid NSW - Youth Helpline
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Phone: 1800 10 18 10
Web: http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/what-we-do/criminal-law/youth-hotline
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This service provides legal advice and information to young people under 18. Many of these calls facilitate the operation
of the Young Offenders Act 1997 where, after legal advice, young people make admissions to police and are then given
cautions or referred to youth justice conferences by police, rather than being charged with offences and brought before a
court.
Legal Aid NSW - Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Program
Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services assist women and children who are or have been experiencing
domestic violence to obtain effective legal protection through applications for Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders
(ADVOs). The service helps clients to obtain legal protection from domestic violence and support with other needs
including accessing support services, such as financial assistance and advice, housing, counselling and family law issues.
Phone: (02) 4940 8766
Web: http://www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au/what-we-do/community-partnerships/womens-domestic-violence-courtadvocacy-program
Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS)
ALS assists Aboriginal men, women, young people and children who have come into contact with Police or the courts,
youth detention or incarceration. ALS provides legal assistance in criminal law, children’s ‘care and protection’ law and
family law, including:
Representation in court
Field Officers who live and work in their communities and support the ALS lawyers as cultural translators
The Custody Notification Service - provides early legal advice for Aboriginal people taken into Police custody
Assistance in applying for work and development orders
Assistance in accessing civil and family law advice
Assistance for recently released prisoners reintegrate into daily life
Provision of a community legal program, which involves developing nad distributing films, brochures and
educational resources used for talking with people about their legal rights
Advocacy and referral to further support services
Phone: 1800 765 767
Web: http://www.alsnswact.org.au/
Mental Health
Association of the Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill (ARAFMI)
ARAFMI provides mutual support services for families and carers of people with a mental illness, including interventions
such as information, counselling and support concerning issues of depression, mind health, self-harm and relationships,
and education workshops with focus areas such as:
Coping skills
Stress management
Mindfulness
Self-esteem
Assertiveness
Loss and Grief
8 Stages of Healing
Phone (02) 49612842 (Admin), (02) 49616717 (Support)
Address: 22 Stewart Ave, Hamilton East, NSW 2303
Web: http://www.arafmihunter.org
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One of the key roles of BeyondBlue is to produce and refer people to accurate, up to date, easy to read information on
depression, anxiety and related disorders. This includes information relating to:
Depression (including postnatal depression)
Anxiety disorders
Bipolar disorder
Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery of specific mental illness/conditions
Pregnancy and early parenthood
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Beyond Blue
BeyondBlue also provides specific information and links to further support services for groups within society, including
young people, men, women ,older people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bi, trans,
intersex) people, multicultural people
BeyondBlue also provide immediate mental health support to adolescents, with individuals offered three methods of
contact:
24 hour hotline – 1300 22 4636
Online chat with BeyondBlue consultant – 4pm-10pm daily https://online.beyondblue.org.au/WebModules/Chat/InitialInformation.aspx
Email (guaranteed response within 24 hrs) https://online.beyondblue.org.au/WebModules/Email/InitialInformation.aspx
Phone: 1300 22 4636
Web: http://www.beyondblue.org.au
Black Dog Institute
The Black Dog Institute provides specialist expertise in depression and bipolar disorder. The Institute's goal is to
advance the understanding, diagnosis and management of the mood disorders by continuously raising clinical, research,
education and training standards. In so doing, the Institute aims to improve the lives of those affected and in turn the
lives of their families and friends.
The Black Dog Institute website provides information on depression and bipolar disorder, ‘getting help’ (including
advocacy of external organisations/services) and ‘giving help’ strategies, resource materials and education programs.
The Black Dog Institute also conducts support group programs.
Phone: (02) 9382 4530
Web: http://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS)
The services available through CAMHS include:
Crisis mental health assessment, referral and treatment;
Mental health counselling;
Specialised perinatal psychiatry
Specialised services via Wiyiliin to Aboriginal counselling team
School Link
Support for young people and children of parents with mental illness
Support for carers and family members
Phone: 49257800
Address: Newcastle East Community Health Centre, 621 Hunter St Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: www.hunter.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/index.htm
Dads in Distress
A free suicide prevention group aimed at helping fathers/male carers cope with the demands of parenting, establish and
maintain own mental health and wellbeing. The structured environment provides support to men going through the
trauma of divorce, separation or relationship breakdown, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Support provided through
support Groups (held weekly on Wednesdays at 7:30pm), as well as one on one support.
Phone: 6652 8113 (Office) or 1300853437 (24 our Helpline support)
Address: Elizabeth St, Tighes Hill NSW 2297
Web: www.dadsindistress.asn.au
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headspace Newcastle provides early intervention mental health services and specialised support for 12-25 year olds for the
following:
Mental Health
Alcohol and other drugs
Relationships
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headspace Newcastle
Education and training
Social activities
School and work hassles
Bullying
On site professionals include:
Psychologists
General practitioners
Social workers
Occupational therapists
Drug and alcohol counsellors
Family workers
Indigenous workers
Employment and education consultants
The headspace website also includes information and resource materials for parents/carers and young people, links to external
support services/organisations and calendar of events and activities within the community. headspace also has a ‘Youth
Reference Group’ that is open to all young people – headspace consult with the YRG on topics such as quality of care,
community engagement, outreach and health promotion. The YRG often represent headspace Newcastle at events and
festivals throughout the community.
Referral to headspace can take place via ‘drop in’ to the headspace site, via email, phone or fax. Referral forms are
available via the website.
Phone: 49294201
Fax: 49252864
Referral email: [email protected]
Address: 82 Hunter St Newcastle 2300
Web: http://www.headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/headspace-newcastle/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/headspaceAustralia
Salvation Army Care Lines
The Salvation Army provide a range of services to assist individuals that are concerned about someone who is suicidal or
someone who is bereaved by suicide, or if they are need themselves. Trained counsellors are available 24 hours a day,
and will help callers work through a range of options, which may include information and referrals to external
organisations/services, as a means to empower individuals to change their (or the person they are concerned about)
situation.
They also provide a specific youth counselling line, available to young people who want to talk to someone regarding
issues such as personal issues, relationships problems, school based issues (such as school-related stress, bullying).
Parents are also able to use this service if they need supporting a child who is experiencing difficulties.
Crisis counselling is also available for those who are experiencing a crisis in their lives or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
General Army Care Line: 1300 36 36 22
Youth Counselling line: (02) 87363293
Crisis Counselling line: (02) 87363295
Web: http://salvos.org.au/need-help/family-and-personal-issues/telephone-counselling.php
Multicultural
Phone 1800 114 707
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This service provides language and literacy tuition for newly-arrived migrants.
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Adult Migrant English Service
Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) (TAFE NSW)
The AMEP provides minimum of 510 hours of free English lessons and childcare to newly-arrived eligible migrants, refugees
and humanitarian entrants. Participants will receive language and literacy tuition, and will learn about Australian society,
culture, customs and working in Australia, as well as the general speaking, listening, reading and writing skills essential for
everyday living, work and further study.
Phone: 4930 2954
Address: Maitland Rd, Tighes Hill 2297
Mail to: Locked Bag 45, Hunter Region MC 2310
Hunter Ethnic Community Council (HECC)
The HECC provides support and services to the aged and younger people with a disability, as well as provides specific
programs for people for culturally diverse backgrounds. Services available include:
Aged care services
Ethno specific and multicultural Health and Wellness centres
Respite day care services – these include Greek, Greek Holy Apostle, Italian, Macedonian, Polish, Ukrainian,
Multicultural, Dementia
Transport – bus transport is available to/from day care centres
Social support –ncludes home visits, transport to medical appointments, hairdresser, shopping, group outings.
Multicultural friendship groups
Multicultural library – a range of multilingual, multicultural, and interfaith resources are available to borrow,
including books, costumes, musical instruments, equipment, toys, and artefacts from around the world.
General assistance and links to other organisations within the multicultural network of community groups
Phone: 49608248
Address: 2A Platt St, Waratah NSW 2298
Web: http://eccnewcastle.org.au
Multicultural Health Services (Hunter New England Health)
The Multicultural Health Service helps ensure that people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds receive:
Equity of access to services
Culturally and linguistically appropriate care
Information about their health in order to make informed decisions
The main services provided by the Multicultural Health Unit include:
The Health Care Interpreter Service, which provide face to face and telephone interpreters and assist with the
translation of health materials.
The Multicultural Health Liaison Service offers support in service planning and delivery, education and advice to
HNE Health staff on multicultural health issues. This is provided through various Multicultural Health Liaison
Programs.
The Refugee Health Program provides on arrival screening and follow-up for refugees settling in the Hunter New
England region.
Phone: 4924 6286
Address: 2nd floor, Harker Building Wallsend, NSW 2287
Web: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/multicultural_health
Page
The Refugee Health Clinic provides free and confidential consultations for people who have recently arrived from
overseas for humanitarian reasons. Services provided include:
Medical consultations
Health education and information
Immunisations
Referrals to other specialist services where required
Dental referrals
38
Refugee Health Clinic (Hunter New England Health)
The health assessments do not affect a person’s residency status in Australia, with all results confidential. Interpreters
can be booked for patients' appointments to ensure effective communication with health personnel. Referrals to the
clinic are received primarily from non-government resettlement organisations. The clinic does not provide ongoing
health care. They provide information on local GP services and specialist referrals as required.
Phone: (02) 4921 3000
Address: Level 2, Newcastle Community Health Centre, 670 Hunter Street Newcastle NSW
Web: http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/multicultural_health/refugee_health_program
Northern Settlement Services
This service is a 'one stop shop' for persons who may have recently migrated and are having difficulties navigating the
community. Northern Settlement Services can assist by providing information, referral, and support and have staff that is
bi-lingual.’ General NSS services and resources include:
Assistance to emerging and established groups with project planning and management.
Room & basic conference equipment for community activities. (bookings required)
Information sessions, workshops & cultural awareness training for corporate or educational groups.
EAPA -Emergency assistance with electricity, gas and water accounts (by appointment only).
Tax Help – taxation return assistance to people with low incomes (July-Oct).
Legal Clinic – provided by Hunter Community Legal Centre Outreach field visits by officers from Department of
Immigration & Citizenship
More specific services include:
Immigration advice service
Refugee support team
Complex case support
Hunter outreach settlement grants program
Bilingual welfare workers (Filipino, Russian, Thai)
Multicultural family support worker
Pacific Islander Welfare Project (Tongan and Samoan)
Community visitors scheme
Community aged care packages
Hunter Multicultural Respite Service
CALD Brighter Futures Program
Homework centres
Phone: 4969 3399
Address: 8 Chaucer Street Hamilton, NSW 2303
Web: http://www.nsservices.com.au/
CALD Brighter Futures Program
Page
Phone: 4969 3399
Address: 8 Chaucer Street Hamilton, NSW 2303
Web: http://www.nsservices.com.au/
39
The CALD Brighter Futures Program is facilitated by Northern Settlement Services in the Newcastle region. The program
offers targeted support to vulnerable families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, to support them in
caring for their children. The key aims include to promote the healthy development of children, develop strong functional
and well supported families and to reduce and prevent child abuse and neglect in families. The program provides a wide
range of service coordination that caters for individual & family needs to improve emotional, social, health and
educational developmental outcomes for families and their children. The service components include the following
categories; case management; home visiting; quality childcare; and parenting programs. The target group is families who
are expecting a child or have children up to 8 years of age.
EMPLOYME - Skilled Migrants Mentoring Program (WEA Hunter)
Skilled Migrants Program is a free service to help skilled migrants and skilled refugees who have recognised professional
or trade qualifications from their country of origin to gain experience and a job in a familiar field in an Australian
workplace. To be eligible for the program, individuals must be a permanent residence and have been in Australia less
than 5 years, come from a non-English speaking background and have their skill recognised. The Skilled Migrants
Mentoring Program provides:
Mentoring in all job seeking skills (resume and letter writing, telephone skills, interview techniques)
Access to job skills online
Workshops on communication in the workplace, OH&S, what to expect in an Australian workplace
Access to industry mentors
Support in securing 70 hours voluntary work placement
Phone: 4925 4200
Address: Cnr King and Brown St, Newcastle 2300
Sexual Assault
NSW Rape Crisis Centre
The NSW Rape Crisis service is accessible to anyone who is at risk of or has experienced sexual assault, family and/or
domestic violence or who is supporting someone who experienced that violence. The NSW Rape Crisis Centre provides
the 24/7 telephone and online crisis counselling service.
Rape crisis hotline: 1800 424 016 (24 hour)
National Sexual Assault, Domestic & Family Violence hotline: 1800 737 732
Sexual Assault Service
The Sexual Assault Service provides professional consultation, community education, medical examinations and
counselling service to children, adults and non-offending caregivers following incidents of sexual assault.
Phone: (02) 4921 3888 (24 hrs); (02) 49246333
Address: 3rd floor Harker Building Wallsend Health Services, Longworth Avenue, Wallsend 2287
Telephone and online support
beyondblue support service – www.beyondblue.org.au
The service is available to youth who are seeking someone outside their friend/family circle to talk to about issues that
are concerning them and that can provide expert assistance. All calls, emails or chats are conducted with trained mental
health professionals, and are completely confidential, with support available via phone 24 hours a day.
Talk - 1300 22 4636
Online chat - http://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/get-immediate-support
Email - https://online.beyondblue.org.au/WebModules/Email/InitialInformation.aspx
Lifeline - www.lifeline.org.au
The Lifeline Information Service (www.lifeline.org.au/find_help/info_service) provides access to a variety of self-help
tool kits with information about issues such as mental illness, depression, panic attacks, suicide prevention etc.
Page
Phone: 13 11 14 (cost of a local call)
40
The Lifeline National Service Finder (www.lifeline.org.au/find_help/service_finder) is a comprehensive online national
database of low-cost or free health and community services offered throughout Australia.
Kids Help Line - www.kidshelp.com.au
Kids Help Line offers free confidential 24-hour telephone counselling services for 5 to 25 year olds in Australia. On the
Kids Help Line site, you can email a counsellor or chat to one online between 3pm and 9pm.
Phone: 1800 55 1800 (free call from land line)
Young Carers
The following websites and helplines are available to young people who care for someone who has an illness, a disability,
a mental health issue or who has an alcohol or other drug problem:
Young Carers www.youngcarers.net.au 1800 242 636
Carers Australia www.carersaustralia.com.au 1800 242 636
Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre www9.health.gov.au/ccsd/index.cfm 1800 052 222
Children of Parents with a Mental Illness www.copmi.net.au/
headspace (National Youth Mental Health Foundation) - www.headspace.org.au
headspace offers a comprehensive website and one-stop-shop services that are youth-specific and youth-friendly.
headspace employs a range of different health workers and programs with a focus on the needs of young people,
including GPs, psychologists, alcohol and drug workers, and also provides information, resources and referral to
education and employment programs.
ReachOut.com - www.reachout.com
ReachOut.com is a web-based service which aims to inspire young people to help themselves through tough times. The
ReachOut.com site has fact sheets and personal stories about a wide range of health and lifestyle issues, as well as
profiles of famous people, an e-newsletter and a database that enables individuals to locate appropriate health services in
their local area.
Reach Out Central - www.reachoutcentral.com.au
Designed specifically for young people, Reach Out Central (ROC) is an interactive program that’s designed to help young
people explore how their thinking, behaviour and feelings all interact with each other, and to help improve and learn new
life skills.
The Inspire Foundation - www.inspire.org.au
The Inspire Foundation combines technology with the direct involvement of young people to deliver innovative and
practical online programs that prevent youth suicide and improve young people’s mental health and wellbeing.
SANE Australia - www.sane.org
SANE Australia is a national charity helping all Australians affected by mental illness lead a better life – through
campaigning, education and research. SANE conducts innovative programs and campaigns to improve the lives of people
living with mental illness, their family and friends. It also operates a busy Helpline, which is a confidential service
providing information about symptoms, treatments, medications, where to go for support and help for carers. Easy to
read pamphlets and other information are also sent out on request. The SANE website provides an extensive range of
support resources and links to mental health and wellbeing organisations and services.
Helpline number 1800 18 SANE (7263)
Somazone - www.somazone.com.au
Page
41
Somazone is a website that was developed by young people for young people, with the assistance of the Australian Drug
Foundation (ADF). The website focuses on health and lifestyle issues such as mental health, drug- use, relationships and
body image, with fact sheets, personal stories and advice on where to get help.
itsallright - www.itsallright.org
tsallright.org is SANE’s website for young people with a parent or friend affected by mental illness. The website provides
comprehensive information on mental health issues experienced by young people and testimonies by youth and their
families who are experiencing a mental illness.
The Black Dog Institute - http://blackdoginstitute.org.au/
The Black Dog Institute website contains:
Expert information on depression and Bipolar Disorder
Information about causes and treatments
Online self-assessment tools
A section on getting help for people experiencing depression and their carers
A page on depression in teenagers and young adults.
www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/public/depression/inteenagersyoungadults.cfm
What Works 4 U - http://whatworks4u.org/
WhatWorks4u.org enables young people to share what treatments have worked for their mental health difficulties and
learn what treatments other young people have reported as helpful. Whatworks4u hopes to increase awareness of
treatment options and inform treatment decisions based on what has worked for similar young people.
Anxiety Network - www.anxietynetwork.com.au
Anxiety Network Australia was established as an information, education and support resource for people all around
Australia who live with anxiety disorders, their carers, relatives and health practitioners.
Reconnexion (formally PADA -The Panic Anxiety Disorder Association) - http://www.reconnexion.org.au
The Reconnexion website provides non-clinical information about panic/anxiety attacks, the five main anxiety disorders,
prevention, self-help strategies, treatment options and membership services. The website also provides email support,
information and advocacy of counselling services, education and training and group programs targeted towards people
experiencing panic attacks, anxiety, depression and tranquiliser dependency.
Helpline: 1300 273 266 (Available 9am-5pm Monday-Friday)
BluePages - www.bluepages.anu.edu.au
Comprehensive, evidence-based information about depression and its treatment (including medical, psychological and
alternative therapies). BluePages also includes interactive depression and anxiety quizzes, descriptions of the experience
and symptoms of depression, a relaxation download, and extensive resources for help .
MoodGYM - www.moodgym.anu.edu.au
A popular interactive program that teaches cognitive-behaviour therapy skills for preventing and coping with
depression.
BlueBoard - www.blueboard.anu.edu.au
Online support group for people affected by depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and borderline personality
disorder. It aims to destigmatise mental disorders, and to provide support, hope and opportunities for sufferers and
carers to share successful coping strategies. The group is run as a moderated bulletin board with strict protocols to
enhance safety.
Page
e-hub’s latest interactive self-help program includes modules for social anxiety, generalised anxiety, depression, panic
disorder, bereavement and relationship breakdown. It provides self-help training drawn from cognitive, behavioural and
interpersonal therapies as well as relaxation and exercise.
42
e-couch - www.ecouch.anu.edu.au
Beacon - www.beacon.anu.edu.au
Beacon provides consumers and professionals with information about e-health online applications (i.e. websites, mobile
applications and internet support groups) for mental health and physical health disorders. Websites throughout the
world are reviewed and ranked by a panel of health researchers, with the smiley rating system used to determine the
site’s validity and the extent to which the site has been an effective method of self-help.
National Drugs Campaign - www.drugs.health.gov.au
The National Drugs Campaign aims to reduce the uptake of ecstasy and other illicit drugs among young Australians by
raising awareness of the harms associated with drug use and encouraging and supporting decisions not to use. The
website provides information for young people about different illicit drugs and provides details about where to get help.
Your Room - http://yourroom.com.au/
Your Room offers information about alcohol and a wide range of drugs, how they can affect people, side effects,
withdrawal, and how individuals can get help for themselves or for anyone else who needs it. Information is available
regarding support and treatment options, as well as downloadable resources and information about how young people
can get involved in their local community to reduce the harms caused by drugs and alcohol.
Druginfo – www.druginfo.adf.org.au
DrugInfo is a service provided by the Australian Drug Foundation that offers information about alcohol and other drugs,
and the prevention of related harms. The site also provides links to further information on the following helplines:
NSW Alcohol and Drug Information Services - 1800 422 599 or (02) 9361 8000
Family Drug Support – 1300 368 186
Cannabis Information and helpline – 1800 30 40 50
Women
Hunter Women’s Centre is run by women for women, prioritising services to women who are marginalised, experiencing
disadvantage or having difficulty in accessing services elsewhere. Staff at the Hunter Women's Centre are experienced
and qualified, and work from a holistic perspective which considers all aspects of a woman's health and wellbeing, with
core focuses of:
Domestic and family violence and abuse
Emotional issues including self-esteem, depression, anxiety and stress
Relationship issues including the promotion of healthy and supportive relationship
Lifestyle risk factors for women (smoking, alcohol and other drugs).
Page
Phone: (02) 4968 2511
Address: Cnr Avon Street & Industrial Drive, Mayfield 2304
Web: http://www.hwc.org.au
43
Services available include:
Counselling and casework - Casework assists women in accessing appropriate accommodation, resolving
financial issues, dealing with government departments and agencies as well as employment and training
support. Casework services include outreach, advocacy, personal support, life skills, achievable goal setting,
resource provision and referrals to external support organisations
Therapeutic and support groups
Workshops (focus areas include domestic violence, self-esteem, communication and assertiveness, and personal
boundaries)
Advocacy, outreach and community education.
Legal advice on matters relating to Family Law
Complimentary health therapies and activities (e.g. Thai Chi)
Family Planning
Family Planning provides specialised services and programs, and advocate promoting the reproductive and sexual health
and rights of for men and women of all ages from all cultural backgrounds. The range of professional and confidential
reproductive and sexual health services include:
Information on all forms of contraception for men and women;
Checks and treatment for Sexually Transmissible Infections (Sties);
HIV/AIDS tests and information;
Pap tests and breast awareness;
Implanon (contraceptive implant);
Pregnancy tests;
Post natal checks;
Advice and information about pregnancy, preconception, menopause, infertility, sterilisation, and premenstrual
tension;
Written information on reproductive and sexual health (in some languages other than English)
Phone: (02) 49294485
Address: 15-19 Queen St, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
Web: www.fpnsw.org.au
Warlga Ngurra Women and Children's Refuge
Crisis accommodation for Aboriignal and Torres Strait Islander women and children escaping from domestic violence
Phone: 1800 65 64 63 for referral and address; (02) 4950 1566
Youth Services
Centacare Newcastle Youth Services
Provides accommodation and support services for youth, including:
Support for single homeless women aged 16 - 25 years
Support for single homeless men aged 16 – 18 years;
Support for pregnant and parenting women aged between 16 and 25 years;
Counselling including for family conflict, relationships, loss, grief, bereavement, change, stress, self-esteem;
Assistance to youth leaving out of home care to access health, accommodation, legal and financial services;
Family mediation
Phone: 49230600
Address: 846 Hunter St, Newcastle West NSW 2302
Web: www.mn.catholic.org.au/diocesan/centacare_youth.html
Page
The Kaleidoscope Youth Health Team is a multidisciplinary outreach service consisting of Clinical Nurse Consultants,
Social Workers, a Staff Specialist Paediatrician and Administration Officer. The Team provides free confidential services
to young people affected by:
Homelessness, or at risk of homelessness
Stressful life situations,
Physical and emotional concerns
Relationship issues including domestic violence
At risk behaviours
Sexuality concerns
Sexual health issues
Chronic illness.
Referrals can be made by the young person or any interested party – providing the young person agrees. Clinicians on the
team provide outreach and centre based appointments as required.
44
Kaleidoscope Youth Health Team
Phone: 49257804
Address: 621 Hunter St Newcastle NSW 2300
Web: http://www.kaleidoscope.org.au/site/yht
Kids helpline
Kids Helpline is a free , private and confidential telephone and online counselling service specifically for young people
aged from 5- 25. Individuals can access theis service to discuss a range of concerns, including relationship difficulties,
stress or anxiety, difficulty understanding and dealing with emotions, peer pressure, bullying and harassment, as well as
more mental health issues such as depression, eating disorders, self-harm and suicidal thoughts. The Kids Helpline
website also has information and resources on ‘Hot Topics’ such as healthy lifestyles, coping with break-ups, loneliness,
as well information on how you can support family or friends who may be experiencing difficulties.
Hotline: 1800 55 1800
Web counselling: www.kidshelp.con.au/teens/get-help/web-counselling
Email counselling: [email protected]
Web: www.kidshelp.com.au
Oasis Youth Network (Salvation Army)
The Oasis Youth Network provides homeless and disadvantaged young people hope, help and opportunities to access
relevant education, training, jobs, counselling, and drug/alcohol programs. It also provides counselling to assist young
people to better understand themselves and their relationships. Specific services include:
The Bridge Youth and Family Program – this program is designed to help young people 12 25 and their families
address barriers or issues relating to drug and alcohol use.
Individual anger management counselling is available for people 12 25 and aims to enable young people to
better understand and manage their emotions.
Information and referral for young people in areas such as legal issues, court support and seeking
accommodation is also available.
Needs-based programs, such as Mental Health Reconnect; Helping Young People Achieve; 'Choices'; 'Friday
Freeway'; Young Parents Program;
Drop in Centre
Chaplain's Outreach
Outreach Fitness Centre.
Phone: 49698066
Address: 116 120 Hannell Street Wickham NSW 2293
Web: http://salvos.org/oasishunter
PCYC
The aim of the PCYC is to work with young people to develop their skills, character and leadership and prevent and
reduce crime by and against young people. PCYC work with young people aged 15 24 years referred by schools or other
youth related organisations and services to:
Create learning opportunities that cater for young people's individuality and needs
Assist in developing young people's confidence, independence and self-esteem
Build on young people's strengths and assist in creating short and long term goals for the students
Discuss relevant societal issues to give young people both an understanding and opportunity to speak out for
youth.
Page
Phone: (02) 4961 4493
Address: Cnr Young & Melbourne Roads Broadmeadow, NSW 2292
Web: http://www.pcycnsw.org/newcastle
45
The PCYC also hosts a variety of sporting and cultural programs including but not limited to, Brass Band, Gymnastics,
Circus skills, Fitness (Cardio & General fitness), Boxing, Arts and Crafts, Basketball, Futsal, Table Tennis, Judo, Karate and
various other youth orientated activities. It also hosts events throughout the year including Safe Driver programs, Blue
Light Discos and runs a Friday night drop-in activities centre (this also includes transport via the Wungara Bus ‘Say
Patrol Program’). PCYC also provides on-site childcare facilities.
Say Patrol Program (Wungara Bus)
The Say Patrol Program is a Youth Transport option available to young people in the Newcastle area under the age of 18.
The program is designed to get Aboriginal youth and friends off the streets, providing them with alternate activities and
safe transport options between the centre and their homes. The program runs every Friday night at Newcastle PCYC
from 7.30pm- 10.00pm with activities including sport, pool competitions, Xbox and Wii games, as well as a
complimentary meal.
Drop off services are also provided on Friday and Saturday nights from 9:00pm- 1:00am, where PCYC staff transport
Aboriginal people and their friends to safe locations.
Phone: 0488142390
Address: Cnr Young & Melbourne Roads Broadmeadow, NSW 2292
Web: http://www.pcycnsw.org/club_newcastle_act
Reconnect (Samaritans)
Reconnect services aim to provide a range of supports to young people aged between 12 and 18 who are homeless or at
risk of homelessness, and want some assistance with their family relationships, including counselling, improving
relationships, mediation, goal setting, connecting with education/work. A worker is linked to each young person to help
in sorting things out with their family; connect them with training and employment services; help them to stay in school
when it gets tough; provide income support and find somewhere safe to stay if necessary.
Phone: 1800 171800; (02) 49607100
Address: 32 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow 2292
Web: www.samaritans.org.au/service/reconnect
Page
The Samaritans provide a range of Youth Services including:
Adolescent and family counselling - Provides a safe, confidential and friendly space for young people 11 to 21
years and their families to talk through tough times. Phone: 49 311000. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/family-counselling/
Back on Trac - Offers medium to long term accommodation for young people aged between 16 and 25 who are
homeless or at risk of homelessness. Other youth housing options can be discovered through this service. Phone:
(02) 49916878. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/back-on-trac/
Homeless services - Homeless Services offer quality homeless services in Newcastle and surrounds to those
experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/homeless/
Intensive Family Support - Maintaining each family we work with as a unit and reduce the risk of children
entering the Out Of Home Care system. Phone: (02) 43335961. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/intensive-family-support/
Out of home care - This foster care service supports foster carers who provide a safe and nurturing
environment for children and young people who are not able to live with their family. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/foster-care/
Outreach Team (SORT) - Providing information, advice, life-skills, case planning and supported
accommodation to young people ages 14-24 years. Phone: (02) 43321388. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/sort/
Student Accommodation - This program is a Foyer Model offering supported accommodation, education and
employment opportunities to young people. Phone: (02) 49697886. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/samaritans-student-accommodation/
Specialist clinic support – This is a clinical support service provided by caseworkers is specific to the needs of
young people and their families, with programs designed to equip all parties with the tools and strategies to
address identified concerns. Phone: 1300 656 336. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/671/
Stepping Stones - A crisis refuge for young people aged 12–17 who are experiencing homelessness. The
outreach team can also help young people 14 to 24 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Phone: (02)
43511922. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/steppingstones/
Young Parent Support – Caseworkers support young parents and their children by providing group activities,
day programs as well as support and referral to other services. Phone: (02) 49311005. Web:
http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/young-parent-support/
46
Samaritans Youth Services
Early Youth Intervention Activities - Offers support to young people and their families aged between 12-18
years and is delivered by way of specialised programs, individual casework and activities and skill development
groups. This is a free service and is offered to schools, other organisations and the community. Phone: (02)
49425275. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youth-early-intervention-activities/
Youthdirect - A phone and drop-in service for young people aged 12-25 years old. Phone: 1800171800; (02)
49221502. Web: http://www.samaritans.org.au/service/youthdirect/
Tantrum Theatre Co-operative Ltd (: Previously known as 2 til 5Youth Centre)
Tantrum theatre offers young people aged 5-30 yrs versatile arts programs that engages, celebrates and supports young
people's development, identities and interests through drama workshops, master classes and productions in
collaboration with leading theatre professionals.
Phone: 4929 7279
Address: 399 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300
Web: www.tantrumtheatre.org.au
Wesley Mission Newcastle Youth Services
Wesley Mission provides casework, counselling, crisis intervention, information and referrals, advocacy, outreach,
community education and early intervention and prevention group work programmes for young people 12 to 25 years,
their families and communities Youth programs focus on:
Improved functioning for young people provided with a service from the program
Improved networks for young people
Enhancing young people’s resilience as indicated by school, community and family connectedness
Strengthening individual and family resilience by reducing risks/harm minimisation
Integrated service delivery/networks
Effective service pathways for young people
Developing community capacity/capability: creating social capital.
Phone: (02) 4962 2188
Address: 14 Wood St, Newcastle West, NSW 2309
Web: http://www.wesleymission.org.au/centres/Youth/Newcastle_Youth_Service.asp
Youth on Track
Youth on Track is a scheme for identifying and responding to young people at risk of criminal offence or who may already
be in the criminal justice system. The Youth on Track scheme is based on early intervention principles and an
interagency approach to the management of the needs of these young people and their families. It is designed to prevent
young people from becoming entrenched in criminal behaviour. The key priciples of Youth on Track are:
Intervening earlier to divert young people from crime
One-on-one case management to manage and support juvenile offenders and those at risk of offending.
Separating treatment from punishment.
Responding to risk and need rather than simply to crime.
Responding promptly to an immediate problem.
Page
Web: http://www.youthontrack.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/yot/index.html
47
A case manager will be allocated to each at-risk individual and will be rresponsible for working directly with the young
person and their family, or those responsible for the young person, to change those things in their environment that are
leading to the offending behaviour. They will be responsible for identifying and arranging access to services and
programs. The Youth on Track model has six key elements:
Identification and Referral
Screening
Assessment
Case Management
Intervention
Exit
Youth with a Mission (YWAM) - Youth Street Teams
Youth Street Teams is a dynamic program offered every Saturday from 2:00-5:45pm, consisting of different Activity
Teams of adolescents aged 12 - 17. Participants pick teams based on interests or hobbies, with Teams offered including
Sports Team, Museart Team, Surf Team, Scoot Team, Skate Team and Dance Team. Each team leader plans 13 weeks of
activities for the duration of each school term.
Page
48
Phone: (02) 4960 0777
Address: 28 Hanbury St Mayfield NSW 2304
Website: http://youth.st

Community Directory

Transcription

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