Social Work Program

Our free social work program is available to clients who are receiving assistance from our legal team and meet the required eligibility criteria.  Clients can let their lawyer know that they are interested in the social work program or their lawyer may recommend accessing the program.  Our lawyers will advise clients whether they are eligible and whether the social work team is currently accepting new clients.  If so, the lawyer will arrange a supported referral.

Social Work support is generally available to clients who are:

• A current or past client of our service AND
• 18 years and over AND
• Have previously, are at risk of, or currently experiencing family violence AND
• Live in the Geelong, Surf Coast, Bellarine or Colac Otway region

The social work program provides individual support tailored to each individual’s unique set of circumstances.  The support provided to one client, might look quite different to the support provided to someone else.  Social work supports may include some or all of the following:

• Emotional support and counselling
• Practical support, for example, support letters, assistance with applications/paperwork
• Advocacy, for example, to arrange payment plans or support to deal with debts, tenancy issues or report FVIO breaches
• Risk assessment and safety planning
• Case management/co-case management with other providers
• Warm referrals to other services, including, health, education, employment, mental health, disability, children and family services.
• Information, consultation and non-legal advice
• Interpreting services can also be accessed if needed

Over the past four years, many clients have reported that they feel better equipped to engage in legal processes when being supported with their other non-legal issues by a social worker.  Clients also find it helpful to speak with a social worker who has knowledge of the legal system.

Our social workers and legal team agree that working together in an integrated way informs each other’s work and enhances the quality of services that can be provided to clients.