Since our last newsletter the COVID-19 situation has improved, Australia has “flattened the curve” and our region has been particularly successful in suppressing the transmission of the virus. The pathway to a post-COVID future is becoming clearer. But the pandemic is by no means over, we must remain vigilant with our infection control and physical distancing practices.
 
Many people in our community have lost employment and businesses are struggling to survive. Parents are juggling the extra responsibility of children learning from home, others are isolated and alone. We know people and families are hurting and that things will get tougher as we go along.
 
We’re here for you.

Our offices are open, our services are available. Don’t hesitate to call us. Together we can work out the best way to support you and your family.
 
Important service updates (4/5/2020)
Our revised course program for term 2 was published this week with all courses now being delivered online due to COVID-19 restrictions.

How our online course will work:
•  we will be using Zoom to deliver courses in an interactive way, so you will need access to a computer or other device
•  if you don’t have access to a device we can discuss ways that we can support you
once your registration has been confirmed for a course you will be sent instructions on downloading Zoom and guidelines for participation
•  course facilitators will be available to assist you to get online prior to each session

Playgroups have been suspended until restrictions are lifted. Our playgroup team are staying in touch with participants by phone and providing support and engaging online content for playgroup families.

Stay safe!

David Boutkan
Executive Director

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Relationships Services team had to quickly adapt the delivery of Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say to an online platform. The course was midway through and for some participants this was the first time they had attended an online course. Transforming the course to online allowed the course participants to continue to access our service, stay connected with other participants and complete the course.

Delivering the course online also alleviated the disconnection of social isolation. The feedback from participants regarding the course being delivered online was excellent. The Relationships Services team are excited that this term they will be delivering ‘Self Esteem for Women’ course online this term on the 22 and 29 May 2020.

The Family Centre Playgroups are still working online but are sharing some fantastic and creative ideas to Playgroup families. Playgroup worker Vanessa (who is very handy with a saw, drill and hammer) last week shared how to make finger gyms, counting logs and musical instruments from nature. It is a cheap and sustainable way to encourage children to learn through using nature and things that can be found in nature. Vanessa used tree branches, logs and leaves to make some very clever nature-based learning toys.

We are living in challenge times.

Now, more than ever, is a great time to consider how we can achieve better health.
The 2484 postcode area is 1 of 5 areas in NSW selected for the 2020 Healthy Towns Challenge. This makes everyone living in the 2484 postcode area eligible for a minimum of 10 free phone based coaching sessions with qualified, health professionals.

If you choose to participate, your health coach will work with you to identify and work towards your personalised health goals. There are no strings attached. This is a free service provided by NSW Health.

If you are interested in finding out more, please call or text Kym McMillan at It Takes a Town on 0417 076 700.

All we need to register you for this free service is your name and phone number.