Since 2011 the Family Referral Service (FRS) has assisted local families and youth in the New England North West region to gain access to the best support services available to suit their individual needs. In May 2013, FRS opened the doors of its new Armidale office with the intention of assisting the youth and families in the Armidale, Guyra, Walcha, Uralla, and surrounding regions.
Claire Cummings was the first Family Referral Worker for Pathfinders in Armidale. Claire studied and worked in nursing, aged care, and pathology for six years before starting to work with the families within the region.
‘I am looking forward to becoming a part of the FRS and Pathfinders team and having the opportunity to work with local families and individuals to find the best possible support options available to them’.
Claire assisted individuals and families who have been referred to FRS via the police wellbeing unit, health and education departments and also through referrals from other local organisations.
Today the Family Referral Service has been substituted by Family Connect and Support, a free service funded by the NSW Government, as apart of Keep Them Safe action plan to improve the safety and well-being of children in NSW.
