The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has already had a significant impact on the lives of people across the country and around the world, and will continue to influence the dynamics of everyday life well into the future.
As important as the work we do at VACCA is, like other organisations, our servces have been affected by COVID-19. While there are restrictions on movements and services across Victoria, many of our services are deemed essential and we will continue to provide them throughout the pandemic.
The wellbeing, health, and safety of our people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, communities, and clients we serve is a priority – and to support this, we are following and practicing the recommended health and safety measures when providing services and support.
We will continue to review and assess the services we provide during the pandemic, and the ways in which we are able to connect and interact with our clients, carers, families, and the broader community. We will do this not only to ensure we are always accessible, but also to ensure that our most vulnerable clients always have access to the essential services they need.
The essential services we currently offer with COVID-19 restrictions in place include our:
- Child and Family Services specifically Family Services and Child FIRST, both are continuing new assessments and at home support.
- Child protection services Lakidjeka or Aboriginal Child Specialist Advice and Support Service (ACSASS) offers advice on culturally appropriate interventions and referral services, and critical child protection decisions in situations and cases involving Child Protection.
- Homelessness Services helping the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless, build a new life by providing critical support and helping them find secure, long-term housing. We have programs for homeless youth, and for anyone aged 17 years or older, including couples and families.
- Family Violence Services offers vital support for women, men, young people and children experiencing family violence, including access to our network of support and safety hubs, Orange Door.
- Leaving Care Service continues to provide advice and support to young people before and after leaving care, transitioning to supported independent living.
- Emergency Relief offers culturally respectful advice and support for individuals or families experiencing unexpected hardship or a financial crisis.
If you are currently use of any VACCA support or services, speak to your case worker about the services above, along with other services we continue to offer.
If you now find yourself needing to access any services we provide contact your nearest office.
More information on VACCA Services and Support during COVID-19 can be found here.