Case Management

We offer free and confidential case management support to women and children experiencing family violence across the Barwon region. Specialist Family Violence Case Managers may offer support to a woman, or woman and her children for up to 12 weeks.

This support may include assessing the level of risk and developing a safety plan, by undertaking a holistic assessment of needs and goals.

Our case managers are able to offer information and support for women to make informed choices; we work collaboratively with other family violence services and link people in to a range of required services.

For women who are leaving a family violence situation we can assist with access to crisis accommodation and referral/s to refuge. We can also offer court support in relation to family violence matters.

FAQ

• How do I access family violence case management support?

  If you are experiencing family violence, you are welcome to contact either The SAFV Centre Intake Team on 5222 4318 or your local Orange Door.

  When accessing either our Intake Team or The Orange Door, our staff will listen to your current safety concerns, undertake a risk assessment and provide information on safety planning. Your intake worker will discuss support options, that may include case management support or a referral to appropriate services.

• Do I need to have reported the violence to access support?

  No. If you are experiencing family violence then we can provide support.

• Is there a cost for this service?

  No.  We provide a free and confidential service.

• Is there any waiting times?

  Due to demand, there are times where there is a wait for allocation to case management support. When this occurs, our Intake team will undertake a comprehensive risk assessment and do safety planning with you.  They will provide advice around possible timeframes, and you are welcome to re-contact our Intake team via 5222 4318 if needed whilst waiting, particularly if you feel unsafe. If you are unsafe and it is out of business hours, you can contact Safe Steps on 1800 015 188.

• What happens if I am experiencing family violence after-hours or on a weekend?

  Help is available. If you are unsafe and if it afterhours, and you require immediate assistance, please call 000. If you are safe to call for support, we recommend calling Safe Steps on 1800 015 188. Safe Steps will speak to you about your immediate needs, and provide information and support. If you are unsafe to be at home, Safe Steps can refer you to access emergency accommodation support and will provide a referral for a local service, such as The SAFV Centre, who will contact you the next day to provide further support.

• What support can a case manager provide?

  A case manager will meet with you to discuss your current safety concerns, discuss safety plans, and then work with you to develop a case plan together. Each plan is different, and will vary according to your individual needs. Some common things that a case manager can assist with include ongoing risk assessment, safety planning, resources to increase your personal or home safety, linkages to housing services, referrals for therapeutic support, advocacy and linkages to services such as community nursing, legal services or financial counselling.

  Your case manager will usually provide support for a period of up to 12 weeks, however sometimes only some brief support is required.