On 1 January 2021, the well-known Family Referral Service, managed by NSW Health, transferred to the Department of Communities and Justice. It is called Family Connect and Support. Just like the Family Referral Service, the new Family Connect and Support brings together families, support services and community resources so that our children and young people are safe and well.
Family Connect and Support helps children, young people and families in NSW with support services in their local area:
- Family and Parenting Support
- Financial Stress
- Substance Use
- Housing
- Youth Support Groups
- Mental health Services
- Domestic and family violence (DFV)
- Education and Employment
- Planning to Priority Populations
Through an initial consultation, we get to know you and your individual circumstances.
Understanding your needs and building on your strengths, we identify the support your family needs to make positive change in your lives.
We’ll give you information and advice and help you connect to the services in your area, so you don’t have to retell your story.
We stay connected with you until you’re matched with the right services or support.
Family Connect and Support (FCS), previously Family Referral Service (FRS) assists children and young people who do not meet the statutory threshold for child protection intervention but would benefit from accessing support to address current problems and prevent future escalations. The new Family Connect and Support streamlines access for families, referrers, and service providers, providing consistency across the state, while maintaining local-level flexibility.
OUR STAFF
When you phone or come into a Family Connect and Support office, you will speak to a responsive, professionally trained FCS Worker who will connect you with the right service and support you with issues affecting your family. They will take time to listen and assist you in identifying your needs. Family Connect and Support welcomes families from all cultures and backgrounds, lands, and communities.
WHAT WILL IT COST?
The service is free. FCS is funded by the NSW Government, as apart of Keep Them Safe action plan to improve the safety and well-being of children in NSW. Pathfinders FCS operates from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday.
Mid North Coast: Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, Taree
email mncfcs@pathfinders.ngo
website www.pathfinders.ngo
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