Shire, BCYF partnership providing free services

The Surf Coast Shire and Barwon Child, Youth & Family (BCYF) are now partnering to deliver free wellbeing and health services embracing mental health, alcohol, drug and family support.

Individuals and families are now welcome to get access to the private, confidential services available three days a week at Torquay’s Kurrumbee Myaring Community Centre.

The services include Youth Alcohol and Other Drugs – safe and confidential support specifically targeted to people aged from 12-25 available as a drop-in service on Mondays from 9am- 12.30pm; and Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs – interventions are available on Tuesdays from 9am-4pm for people aged 14 and older, and this service also offers support to family members who are affected by a loved one’s alcohol or substance use.

Five free sessions are available and links can be provided to get access to other health services. A similar service is also available at Lorne Medical Centre every second Wednesday, in partnership with Great Ocean Road Health and Western Victoria Primary Health Network, and Family and Community Services – a child and family practitioner provides information, brief intervention and a referral service for families experiencing challenges and requiring support with parenting issues.

Services are available Thursdays 9am-3pm, with a drop-in service available from 9.30-11.30am. Parenting education group programs are also available.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the shire was pleased to be able to support the services.

“Providing a safe and sensitive space for people is so important if they are seeking advice to address personal concerns,” Cr Stapleton said.

“Our Kurrumbee Myaring Community Centre hosts free and confidential support, and we encourage individuals and families to make the most of these services, no matter how big or small they believe their issue is.”

BCYF manager of alcohol and other drugs and Mental Health Services Josephine Taylor said the organisation welcomed opportunity to work with Council, Great Ocean Road Health and Western Vic Primary Health Network in providing important services in the shire.

“We believe strongly that people have a right to access health services in their own community.

“Many people have experienced challenges during the past few years with the changes occurring around us due to COVID and other social issues. It is okay to reach out and ask for help.

“Support for families is available to help with a range of issues that impact on wellbeing and functioning. Don’t wait until things are out of control before asking for help.”

For more information or to make bookings, phone Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre 5264 9250.

People seeking intervention support services in Lorne can phone 0432 688 769.

Barwon Child Youth and Family also provides alcohol and other drugs phone support on 1300 022 293 and family support on 5229 8600.