Foster Carers Association NT June 2015 Newsletter is Out!

News from the Association and Industry, useful tips for carers and upcoming events and training to mark in your diary.

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Newsletter June 2015

EMPOWERING CARERS THROUGH KNOWLEDGE, SUPPORT & ADVOCACY

Meet Our New Office Manager - Bianca Fraser

I have been fortunate enough to travel to and live in many places across Australia and the world. It has provided me a greater understanding of cultures, different ways of life and exposed me to a wonderful array of people.

With an interest and passion for social work, psychology and the care and wellbeing of children, this position and being able to support both our advocates and foster and kinship families administratively, is a perfect fit for me.

My career in administration and office management has been a very rewarding one. Whilst it has presented challenges, it has increased my learning capacity and provided me with such a varied but complementary skillset. It’s very true “You learn something new every day”!

I am based in the Darwin office please call in and say hello!

Child Protection Hotline 1800 700 250
In case of emergency call 000

Keep up with us!

What's on..

11 June - Trauma & Developing Brain Introductory Information Session Alice Springs

30 June Foster Carer Info Sessions Darwin

22 August Foster Carers Expo 2015
Alice Springs.
Save the Date!

WIN MOVIE TICKETS!

HAVE YOU MOVED?
Update your details
T:8945 3364 or
E: info@fostercarent.org.au

OFFICE HOURS
Mon - Fri 8.00am-4.00pm

ADVOCATES UPDATES

Southern Region - Rosalyn Havard - rosalyn.havard@fostercarersnt.org.au

Last month, Ann and I attended morning tea at the Department of Children and Families Foster Care, hosted by the Out of Home Care Team.

Foster carers who are registered carers with the Department of Children and Families should have received a letter from Simone Jackson A/Executive Director Out of Home Care Division inviting them to attend the monthly morning teas to discuss any concerns you may have with her and the Manager Carers and Residential Care South.

The next morning tea will be held on Friday 12 June from 10.30am-12.00noon at Department of Children and Families, Mwerre House, 60-64 Hartley Street, Alice Springs. The following month the morning tea is scheduled to be held on Tuesday 21 July.

I recently hosted an information session about Diabetes Type 1, formally known as juvenile diabetes. Topics covered included:

What is Diabetes?
Why does Type 1 Diabetes occur?
How is it diagnosed?
How common is Type 1 Diabetes?

A big thank you to Mary Woolcock, Healthy Living Community Educator for taking time out to come and share her knowledge.

The Alice Springs Show is coming! Get the kids involved! Carers - are you crafty? Have you thought about showing off your creative side? Why not showcase your talents and enter in the Alice Springs Show? There are categories for children to enter as well including Junior categories Craft (starting at 5 years and under) Cooking, Hobbies and Horticulture.

Children love to see their work on display and the Categories for entry include Fairy Garden, Rock Garden for Dinosaurs, Space Scene Rock Garden or Decorated Gum Boot. Painting and drawing starts at 4 years and under. What is more creative than icing and decorating a milk arrowroot biscuit or gingerbread man? Enter on line at : www.alice-springs.com.au. Good luck!

The Foster & Kinship Care Expo 2015 will be held in Alice Springs this year on 22 August at Gillen Primary School Hall. What is the Expo you may ask? Foster Carers Association NT invite other agencies to promote their services to foster and kinship carers and talk about what they do best. It is also an opportunity for people who are thinking about becoming a foster carer to gather information and to meet current carers. Other activities will include a BBQ, face painting, a jumping castle, giveaways and much more!

EARLY REGISTRATIONS to exhibit at the Expo include Adam Harwood from the Office of The Children’s Commissioner who will be present to give information about the work and role of the Children’s Commissioner.

As well as Margaret James from Honey Ant Readers who will come along with story tellers and translators to assist her. A reminder that Foster Carers Association NT Alice Springs have DVD Honey Ant stories in various languages available for short term loan to carers.

Northern Region - Catherine Collier - catherine.collier@fostercarersnt.org.au

It’s been heads down in the office throughout April and May with lots of carers requesting advocacy and support services at this time. I started the month on a very positive note attending DCF’s Strength’s Approach training which provided practical strategies and a renewed perspective for me to address carer issues in a 'strengths based' partnership approach. It was a good reminder for me that we are all working toward the same goal – the best interests of children in care. Although challenges in caring often lead to frustration it is important to remember that building positive relationships with DCF, families and stakeholders is one of the best approaches to finding our common ground. A big shout out to DCF Professional Development Trainer, Wayne McCashen, who managed to inspire and invigorate the diverse group of participants over the two days. Carers can apply to attend Strengths Approach training, see details on how to register below in the Training, Development & Networking Opportunities section.

Foster and Kinship Carer Induction training occurred over three Saturdays this month. Given the high numbers of children currently in care, and the projected outlook of increasing numbers of children entering care in the future, it is promising to see people continue to put up their hands and open their hearts and homes to become Foster and Kinship Carers for children in the NT. Thank you to experienced carers and Foster Carers Association NT volunteers, Jennie and Louisa, who each gave up a Saturday to support facilitation of training and to share their invaluable knowledge and experience as foster carers. There is no-one better to give a picture of what it will be like as a carer than a current carer!

A big thank you also for experienced carer Haidee who came along to this month’s Foster and Kinship Care Info session. Every month on the last Tuesday of that month Lucja, myself and a carer volunteer hang back at the office to meet and talk with persons interested in becoming carers. We are seeing more people come through these sessions which is also promising in terms of seeing a response to the increasing need for foster and kinship carers. The next Foster and Kinship Care Info session is scheduled for 30 June 4.00-6.00pm. If you know someone who would like to find out more about becoming a carer, encourage them to come along. Interested persons should RSVP to the office in advance to we can cater for the numbers attending.

TRAINING, DEVELOPMENT & NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES

Foster & Kinship Care Social Networking Events

Alice Springs
When Thursday, 25 June 2015
Where Gillen Club, Milner Road, Alice Springs
Contact Roz - T: 8952 9202
E: rosalyn.havard@fostercarersnt.org.au

DCF Foster & Kinship Carers - Morning Teas

Darwin

When 12 June, 11.00am-12noon.

Where DCF Carers Room,
CASCOM 4, Level 2,
Department Children and Families,
Casuarina

Contact: If you would like to attend please call Cath on 8945 3364 or the Carer Assessment and Support team on 8922 7077

Alice Springs

When   12 June, 10.30am-12noon.

Where   Department of Children and Families,
Mwerre House , 60-64 Hartley Street
Alice Springs

Contact:  If you would like to attend please call Roz on 8952 9202

Trauma and the Developing Brain Part 1 - Information Session

We are very fortunate to have Christine Kipps (BA Hons. Psycho;. Dip. ED Spec. Ed. Dip.Hyp.), Clinical and Educational Psychologist, back to present this additional session. The session will cover the following areas:

Impact of trauma on the developing brain
Consequences of trauma
Behavior of traumatised children
Behavioral consequences
Brain development continues throughout the lifespan
Learn about “normal” brain development
Plasticity-The brain’s ability to change

When: Thursday 11 June 2015 from 10.00-11.00am (9.45 for 10.00am start).

Where: Foster Carers Association NT Office, 10/82 Todd Street, Alice Springs

Contact: For those who missed it last time, book now!
Roz T: 8952 9202 E: rosalyn.havard@fostercarersnt.org.au

Dates and times for Tennant Creek session TBA

DCF Specialist Training

As a registered carer, Department of Children and Families training is free for carers to access.

Caring for Aboriginal Children
Darwin 15-16 June

Strengths Approach
Darwin 22-23 July Alice Springs 4-5 August

Aboriginal Cultural Practice in the Context of Child Protection

Darwin 10-11 September Alice Springs 27-28 August

For any queries please email ProfessionalDevelopment.DCF@nt.gov.au or phone 894 48655. To register go to www.mylearninghealth.nt.gov.au. Carers are required to complete an Application Form for Non-Departmental Staff online. Click here to access the 'How to Register' pamphlet.

Foster Care Information Sessions Darwin - Expressions of Interest 'How to Become a Carer?'

Our Advocates, Cath and Lucja, will make themselves available on the last Tuesday of every month from 4.00-6.00 pm, to answer questions and assist potential carers start the process of becoming a carer.

Please share information about these sessions to any friends, family or colleagues who may be interested in becoming a carer.

When Last Tuesday of the month 4.00-6.00pm. Next session will be held on 30 June 2015.

Where Foster Carers Association NT, Darwin Office, 25 Damabila Drive, Lyons.

Contact Cath or Lucja - Ph: 8945 3364 Email: info@fostercarersnt.org.au

DID YOU KNOW?

Dr Chris Seton, paediatric and adolescent sleep physician at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research and SleepShack, estimates around 70 per cent of Australian teens are sleep-deprived.

Guidelines recommend high-schoolers sleep for eight to 10 hours per night, however studies by the National Sleep Foundation suggest many are only averaging around seven and a half hours.

While this amount of sleep may be the 'norm' Seton says it's not acceptable. Understanding sleepy teens. Read the full story. http://ab.co/1c6u4nx

Reunification

It is a legislative requirement in the Northern Territory that all children in the CEO’s care have a case plan that is reviewed initially at 2 months and 6 months thereafter. For the child where the case plan goal is reunification - the case plan must be reviewed at a minimum of every 3 months.

Family contact arrangements should be well planned especially when reunification is a placement goal, communicated to the carers and all involved parties and should be consistent with the child’s care plan. The case plan should include frequency and type of family contact and details of any supervision if required.

Australian research demonstrated that “At least one form of regular parental contact can increase the likelihood of family reunification and decreases the amount of time a child remains in care.”
aifs.gov.au/cfca/publications/issues-relating-reunification

In 2013-14, 191 substitute care and guardianship arrangements were closed, a reduction from 252 (25%) in 2012-13. This helps explain much of the increase in out-of-home care numbers over the year.

In 2013-14, DCF reports the children almost exclusively (189 cases) returned to family.

Source: 2013-14 Annual Report - Children's Commissioner Northern Territory, Pg64

NEWS

Movie Review

As entertaining as it is informative, this cautionary tale explores one of the most insidious and ubiquitous substances of our time, sugar, while exploding myths around the industry of ‘healthy’ foods.

Following three sold out screenings of That Sugar Film at the Deckchair Cinema, two screenings have been added for 24 June and 11 July. Tickets are available to purchase online now.

On a quest to determine the bitter truth about hidden sugars in our modern diet and the cost to our health, Damon subjected himself to eating the national average of sugar per day (40 teaspoons) but only by eating perceived healthy foods like, yoghurts, sports drinks and cereals.

Within 12 days, Gameau had put on 3.2kg, and within 18 days he was displaying the first signs of fatty liver disease.

Bianca our new Office Manager gave it 5 stars " a very informative and well put together documentary. A real eye opener! It gave me a new perspective on hidden sugars with what's perceived to be 'healthy'."

For your chance to win a *double pass to a movie of your choice:

1. Click on the 'Like us on Facebook' button to the left and 'Like' our page, then

2. in the status bar tell us your what is your 'all time favourite movie'.

For those who already 'like' us just go to our page and go straight to Step 2.

Winners will be announced on Tuesday 30 June 2015

* A double pass will be given out for each region. Alice Springs Region Carers - Alice Springs Cinema, Katherine Region Carers - Katherine Cinema and Darwin Region Carers - Deckchair Cinema or Birch Carroll & Coyle

A Message from Michelle McMannus, Senior Carer Support Practitioner, who has left DCF to head back to England.

"Farewell to all our foster & kinship carers. It has been a pleasure working with you all . Through the assessment process, getting to hear your life histories and stories of resilience has been at times humbling and always appreciated.

Your commitment and dedication to our children and working within the challenges of the child protection system to ensure the best interests of the children are met is inspiring and it is the difference you are making to these children's lives that has made my job so rewarding.

Thank you for all your efforts. All the very best in the future."

The University of Melbourne, Department of Social Work and The Berry Street Childhood Institute are conducting a national study called Early Childhood in Foster and Kinship Care. The study is for people over the age of 18 who are the main carers of a foster or kinship care child who has yet to start school full-time.

Foster Carers Association NT is assisting the study by sending information to carers who receive a service from us. Participation in the study is voluntary.

The study will collect important new information that government and non-government agencies can use to support the good development of foster and kinship care children during early childhood and ensure they start school healthy and eager to learn.

Participants will complete a 30 minute survey about their foster/kinship care child’s participation in early learning and care programs, informal learning and developmental wellbeing.

The survey can be completed online or on paper. The survey can also be completed as a telephone interview. Participants who have difficulties with English can complete a telephone interview in their preferred language.

Participants can choose to enter a draw to win one of 10 $50 gift vouchers.

If you want to know more about the Early Childhood in Foster and Kinship Care study or if you wish to complete the survey please visit the project website at: www.fosterandkinship.com.au or contact the Principal Researcher, Dr Sarah Wise on (03) 903 55371 or via email at sarah.wise@unimelb.edu.au. The password to enter the online survey is nurture.

Review of Kinship Carer Surevys
Child Family Community Australia have reviewed a number of Australian kinship care surveys and prepared a paper to inform policy makers, service providers and caseworkers. The report aims to identify characteristics and support needs of kinship care families. To read the full report go to aifs.gov.au/cfca/publications/review-kinship-carer-surveys/introduction

WHAT'S ON IN JUNE!

JUNE/JULY School Holidays - Monday 22 June - Friday 17 July

During holidays organisations like the Waterfront, city and town libraries, tourist attractions, local councils, community groups etc. will run activities to keep the kids busy.

For some ideas on where to go and what to do or some useful links make sure you visit our website (www.fostercarersnt.org.au) or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/FostercarersNT).

We will regularly update these sites in the lead up to and throughout the holidays with what's on for kids and families throughout the NT.

ARC Vic - Community & Professional Anxiety Workshops

Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria will be holding a range of workshops between Tuesday 2 June and Thursday 4 June at Quest Parap. Programs include 'Understanding your Child's Emotions and Worries', 'Parenting Anxious Children', 'Learning to Manage my Anxiety' and 'SafeTALK Suicide Awareness Workshop.' If you are interested in attending one of these workshops or to find out more information call 03 9830 0566 or visit www.arc.org.au.

Digital Information Night

Presented by the Australian Government Department of Human Services, this information night is designed to provide and assist you in gaining a better understanding of the Department’s digital services, such as: • Centrelink, Medicare and Child support online accounts • Express Plus mobile apps • myGov • Humanservices.gov website.

When: Thursday 4 June, 4.30–5.30pm

Where: Darwin Service Centre, 24 Knuckey Street, Darwin.

Contact: If you are interested in attending, please RSVP your details to Dawn.walker@humanservices.gov.au or Matthew.jones-cubillo@humanservices.gov.au

Yoga for all ages and stages

Stepping Stones in Life Therapy Service is proud to offer yoga classes with instructor Brayley Campbell. Classes cater for children 4-12 years, adolescents, pre-natal & mums and bubs. Classes run Mon-Sat. Cost $10 per person. Special: Attend 10 classes and get one free. Classes are open to all members of the Darwin / Palmerston and rural area community.

For bookings and information P: (08) 8985 6067 or E: admin@steppingstonestherapy.com.au

The SHAK

The SHAK will be open from 3pm every Friday with activities including graffiti workshops, hip-hop classes, art workshops, sports and music recording and a formal 3-on-3 basketball tournament will run from 6-8pm. For more information please visit facebook.com/TheSHAKYouthCentre/timeline

National Reconciliation Week 27 May - 3 June

27 May and 3 June commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey—the anniversaries of the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.

The week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort. For more information or to register to hold an event go to reconciliation.org.au/nrw

CREATE in Darwin and Alice Springs will have an awesome school holiday program in the June / July school holidays so don’t be bored and come along! This will include lots of outings to swim, basketball, movies and BIG Connection events!

As a sneak peek, here’s two events planned for the first week!

Darwin
23 June - CREATE Your Future – all 15-25 year olds are invited to our workshop on getting job ready! Learn all you need to know about making a resume, having interviews and visit a real job site!

26 June - YAG – all 10-25 year old’s invited to a fun afternoon. For more info ring Xani on 8945 9993 or email xani.archibald@create.org.au

Alice Springs
24 June - 3 on 3 basketball! This will be a fun day of shooting hoops and having a laugh with your mates. For more info ring Damon on 8953 8358 or damon.schuit@create.org.au

Get in touch for more info and as always Like us on facebook for up to date info https://www.facebook.com/CREATEfnd

June is the LAST month for young people to apply for "Youth 4 Change" grant! Conference is in Brisbane in October and grants can cover all flights, accommodation and conference fee for young person. If young person under 18 this also covers a carer to attend with them! Don't miss this opportunity for young people to meet other people in care, learn some skills and for carers to hear from some amazing guest speakers (Dr. Howard Bath will present this year) Need help with form or more information, no stress just ring or email Michelle at CREATE 89459993 or Michelle.barry@create.org.au"

Copyright © 2015 Foster Carers Association NT, All rights reserved.

Our mailing address is: PO Box 42716, Casuarina NT 0811

Darwin Office: 25 Damabila Drive, Lyons NT 0810. Ph: 8945 3364
Alice Springs Office: 10/82 Todd Street, Alice Springs NT 0870. Ph:8952 9202

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