A strong focus has been on supporting more parents, where appropriate, to move towards selfmanagement. We use a staged approach, in conjunction with legal practitioners, to enable them
to gain a better understanding of the possibilities and the limitations of the services and support
offered through CCS. The strategies used have included the implementation of off-site visits, where
a child and parent are accompanied by a CCS worker to places such as the library, coffee shop or
park for the contact visit. This strategy has seen positive outcomes, with parents developing a more
trusting cooperative parenting relationship. The staged approach has also included interval visits,
where contact is held at the centre with a CCS worker periodically checking in, with the interval
period being extended over time. The implementation of these strategies has seen families who
may have been with the service for an extended period transition to other arrangements or selfmanagement in shorter time frames, allowing the service to take on additional families in need of
the service.
We continued our strong partnership with Macquarie Legal Centre (MLC) by providing Clinical
Supervision for the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service, Central West Contact
Service and the Western Sydney Tenancy Support Service. All staff in these services work with clients
experiencing disadvantage, trauma and high conflict. Interrelate provides Clinical Supervision and
support to these staff to enhance their service delivery skills and allow them to debrief and reflect
on their practice, within the context of the specific roles they undertake.
Two new counsellors were recruited, one in Caringbah to meet continued demand and one in Sydney
North, to further support expansion and growth. The employment of the counsellor in Caringbah
has increased the cultural diversity and cultural richness of the team and is leading to increased
linkages and collaboration with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse services in the area. Work has
commenced with Gymea Community and Information Aid to formulate a Multicultural Women’s
Program to connect and to reduce isolation.
The recruitment of the Sydney North Counsellor has enhanced community development and
strengthened relationships, especially with health services. This will assist with partnerships when
the relocation of Sydney North to Rouse Hill occurs in 2015-16. Rouse Hill has been identified as an
area of need in the Hills region and we will be in a strong position to support the local community
with expert staff and service delivery.
The Greater Sydney region assisted 2,950 people this year.
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