Social support
We walk alongside our clients as they navigate the legal and social support systems.
We work with individuals, families, and communities to promote healthy relationships free from violence. Our Family Advocates work closely with our lawyers to make sure you are supported in ways that will enhance the chances of a good outcome in your legal case.
We draw on specialist knowledge of complex post-traumatic stress issues and work alongside clients to:
- Provide culturally-safe assistance.
- Provide intensive case management work over a sustained period.
- Provide advocacy, practical support and information.
- Provide Crisis support, including the provision of food and other vouchers, dignity packages, etc.
- Provide case coordination with statutory agencies to address the range of issues facing our clients.
- Complete risk assessment and safety planning (case planning) to identify and achieve safety needs for the client and their family.
- Provide court support.
- Attend meetings with other agencies as necessary.
- Provide referrals to a range of culturally appropriate and safe organisations.
Aboriginal people experiencing family violence are often traumatised and face a range of challenges in addition to the demands of their legal case. We believe strongly that by combining legal and social support, we are able to provide far better outcomes for our community.
That’s why alongside our legal support, our Family Advocates and Community Engagement Workers (CEWs) help empower clients by working with them to build a mindset that will help them get the best results, legally and personally.
Using our experience and training, we recognise the signs, symptoms, and widespread impacts of trauma. We understand that paths for recovery must aim to avoid re-traumatisation for our clients at all costs.
We assist people in crisis fleeing family violence and who need immediate support.
We can assist with:
- applying for and finding emergency accommodation
- applying for family support
- accessing urgent legal support
We can provide long term support to help people recover from the impacts of family and domestic violence.
Our social workers work alongside and in collaboration with our legal staff.
You may see one of our social workers:
- Before a planned legal appointment
- Alongside a lawyer if you request they accompany you
- If referred to a social worker by one of our lawyers
Our Family Advocates provide culturally-safe and trauma-informed approaches to non-legal assistance. They help clients through the demands of their legal processes, and also assist in developing strategies for social and emotional well-being.
Support from our social support workers can also include:
- Attending appointments with you (e.g. medical, legal)
- Assisting you with getting to your appointments
- Explaining legal processes and provide legal information
- Communicating and coordinating with other agencies
- Helping you get evidence together
- Providing letters of support
