Summary
Since 2020, Social Futures Family Connect and Support program has delivered intensive, evidence-based family support across the Mid and Far North Coast of NSW. Designed to help families manage crises, while building stability and resilience, the program uses culturally responsive practices, empowering families with complex challenges. The Family Connect and Support program links families, children and young people to the right supports and services.
Since 2020, Social Futures Family Connect and Support program has delivered intensive, evidence-based family support across the Mid and Far North Coast of NSW.
The Family Connect and Support program links families, children and young people to the right supports and services. Designed to help families manage crises, while building stability and resilience, the program delivers intensive case management and rapid response interventions providing families with timely, effective support.
Culturally responsive practices empowering families with complex challenges
As a leader in this space, Social Futures uses culturally responsive practices and evidence-based frameworks focused on helping families overcome complex challenges such as Family and Domestic Violence, substance misuse, financial stress, or mental health challenges. who bring lived experience and cultural perspectives to the organisation, informing culturally safe support for First Nations participants.
Through partnerships with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Social Futures is:
- integrating traditional healing practices into its service offerings;
- honouring cultural traditions; and
- strengthening community relationships.
First Nations and CALD families report improved function after engaging with Family Connect and Support
In 2023–24, Social Futures’ Family Connect and Support Service directly helped 3,890 participants across 27,621 sessions. Of those supported, 32% of participants identified as First Nations and 3% were from CALD communities.
The families involved reported:
- improved functionality;
- reduced crisis impact; and
- safer environments for children.
Take the example of a high-risk family facing domestic violence and financial strain.
- Working with Social Futures, they were able to create a safety plan through the Signs of Safety framework and receive emergency accommodation via brokerage funds.
- Children’s voices were included in the process through tools like the Three Houses and Three Wishes activity, directly shaping goals tailored to their emotional and social needs.
- The result? A pathway to greater stability and healing for both the children and their parents.
Three Houses and Three Wishes tool
This is a tool social workers can use to engage children in meaningful conversations about their thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Creative and interactive, it is is designed to explore three important aspects of a child’s life, represented by three different houses:
- House of Worries: This is where children or families can list their concerns and worries. It provides a safe space to identify and discuss challenges they are facing.
- House of Good Things: In this house, people can share the positive aspects of their lives. It encourages them to focus on their strengths, achievements, and things that make them happy.
- House of Hopes and Dreams: Here, children or families can express their aspirations and goals for the future. It helps in setting targets and working towards a better outcome.
Supporting families through tough times
For 49 years, Social Futures has built deep connections into regional Australian communities. We are proud of our strong and extensive network of partnerships, referral pathways and collaborations with other service providers, sector organisations and community leaders.
When families face tough times, it takes a comprehensive approach to ensure they receive the right support to stay strong and together. Call 1800 719 625.
