Almost $600,000 to support vulnerable families in Nambour, Palmwoods and Eumundi-Yandina

The Palaszczuk Government has committed almost $600,000 to support vulnerable families in the Nambour, Palmwoods and Eumundi–Yandina areas.

Minister for Child Safety Di Farmer said the targeted support funding would help families develop important life skills to help them manage in challenging times so they can focus on caring for and nurturing their children.

“This support is about problem-solving, leadership and decision making,” Ms Farmer said.

“These outreach programs provide parenting education to families experiencing challenges.

“These could include financial hardship, single parenting, unemployment, relationship problems, depression, drug and alcohol use, social isolation and children’s behavioural or health issues.

“Families can gather together to discuss and consider challenges they are facing as well as receive advice and referral to support agencies.

“For example, a family experiencing financial problems or gambling issues could receive one-on-one counselling support and advice, and referral to other services.” 

Ms Farmer said the Nambour, Palmwoods and Eumundi-Yandina programs also provided parenting information sessions and courses.

“The aim is to empower parents to take assertive action and to develop their resilience and coping skills,” she said.

The programs also provide targeted support to fathers and puts them in touch with other dads.

“Parents are encouraged to support each other,” Ms Farmer said.

“There is a strong peer to peer approach as parents are encouraged to make the positive changes they want for their families.”

Ms Farmer said the Palaszczuk Government was now in the fourth year of its 10 year Supporting Families Changing Futures reforms.

“Already we are seeing a positive difference. We remain focused on providing services and support to keep families at home together wherever and whenever possible,” she said.

Ms Farmer said the Nambour, Palmwoods and Eumundi –Yandina funding had seen the introduction of innovative programs such as a weekly pop-up kitchen where families gather together to support each other and to discuss and consider a wide range of issues.

“While they are there, they also receive targeted support and can receive referral to a range of support agencies should they need this type of support,” Ms Farmer said.

For more information on the support that is available for vulnerable families, please go to www.communities.qld.gov.au/gateway/reform-renewal/child-family

ENDS

Media Contact:                      Ron Goodman             0427 781 920