Help is just a phone call away for struggling families this Christmas

Families under pressure this Christmas and school holidays period can access a range of support services available right across Queensland.

Child Safety Minister Di Farmer said the festive season could be a particularly stressful time for many families, who might find themselves struggling to cope with increased financial and family pressures.

“We know that at this time of year there are additional demands on many families, school holidays, family gatherings and the financial burdens and disruptions that come with that,” she said.

“What I would say to anyone who might be feeling under pressure, is that help is just a phone call away.

“Please, reach out and access the wide range of free information, advice and support that is out there.”

Ms Farmer said Family and Child Connect services were there to help support Queensland families and to get them back on track and enjoying Christmas.

“Being a parent is a tough job, and it is absolutely okay for mums and dads to ask for help, at any time of the year,” she said.

“Family and Child Connect is a local, community-based service that will connect families to the right services at the right time.

“They provide vital support to the community and our families all year round, helping with a range of parenting and family challenges – from building better relationships between family members to improving household budgets to managing alcohol, drug or gambling problems.

“The fantastic staff who work in Family and Child Connect services do a wonderful job in our communities, and they are equipped to deal with a wide range of different needs.”

New Family and Child Connect services have been rolled out right across the state to ensure families from the far north to the south and out west have access to these services.

Families looking for support this Christmas should contact Family and Child Connect on 13 FAMILY (13 32 64) or visit www.familychildconnect.org.au for more information.

ENDS

Media Contact:  Ron Goodman  0427 781 920