The Communities for Children Project is an exciting new development for the families and children of our community.
A Commonwealth Government funded initiative, the project is designed to support young children and their families across a wide range of developmental, personal and community issues.
The program will be the first of its kind on the Central Coast, and will cover an area comprising 13 localities existing under the 2261 postcode.
Based on existing Communities for Children projects across Australia, this program has the ability to work directly in conjunction with our local community members and existing community groups. Project manager Sue Ellis states that a high level of community input and involvement is sought in the development of services and activities, in order to customise a program that meets the specific needs of this particular community.
The initiative aims to develop a strong social network within the community and is targeted at families with young children aged 0-5 years, as it is well documented that these early stages are crucial in child development.
There will be a two-pronged approach towards providing these community services. Firstly, by working in partnership with existing community services and agencies. Expanding upon what is already being provided, identifying additional beneficial services and implementing staff development programs. Secondly, the program will be able to provide new and independent services not previously available. These services will be identified through an open consultative process, which will include community groups and members. Resources are also available to enable existing agencies to work together and develop joint strategies to increase the effectiveness of service delivery.
Building Better Communities
The Communities for Children Initiative is based on the result of research, which shows that building community strength and cohesion has a strong impact on the outcomes for children and families. It is a new way to engage communities to work together to identify what is needed.
Some examples of the activities and services that may be funded include:
·Early childhood learning and literacy
·Playgroups
·Communication development programs within child care centres
·Parenting programs and family support services
·Home visiting by professional workers or volunteers
·Counseling and social support services
The initiative will draw on models already established in other communities, where evidence based research can be used to identify which approaches may best suit this community. An evaluation process is also being developed in conjunction with Macquarie University, which will enable local feedback and information made available to the general public.
A key feature of this initiative is to bring community members together through the various activities, with the goal of forming a strong, supportive network for all of its members. One which will have an on-going and increasingly wide-reaching effect.
Government funding of $3 million over 3.5 years has been allocated to this project, so the aim is to build upon and enhance existing services as well as create additional services and networks that will be able to sustain themselves into the future.
Community Involvement Urged
The Communities for Children Project is currently in the consultative process, with actual services and activities expected to begin in 2006. This is an excellent opportunity for all interested community members and groups to become involved in the planning and development of a program that will strengthen and enhance our community and it’s specific needs.
Project manager Sue Ellis welcomes all community input and wishes to work with both formal and informal groups to discuss issues such as what services and activities will benefit our community, and location planning.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to become actively involved in building a strong and supportive community in which to raise our children. Please contact Sue Ellis on
43 882 044 or 0418 418 281, or e-mail suee@bensoc.org.au <mailto:suee@bensoc.org.au>
for further information, or to arrange a meeting to discuss your community needs and ideas.
Susan Wise
Copyright 2005
