Opening Doors Family Reconciliation

Program Objective

This program provides a timely response to young people who present to the Eastern Regions' Opening Doors at the onset of possible homelessness.

The service provides young people with support to resolve family issues and maintain their accommodation within the family context.

An assessment is made of the young person's circumstances to ascertain whether a family reconciliation and advocacy response can prevent the young person from leaving home.

Program Philosophy

The Family Reconciliation Process is not restricted to a young person remaining, or returning to live, in the family home, it can mean facilitating an understanding of the role that family conflict plays in causing the homelessness, and integrating relevant supports for the young person.

Criteria

• The program works with young people aged from 15 to 25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on young people under 18 years of age.

Catchment Area

Eastern Metropolitan Region

Time / Days of Operation

Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm

Cost

No Cost.

Referrals to the Program

The Opening Door Family Reconciliation Program responds to young people as they present in person, or by phone, to the Eastern Metropolitan Regions' Opening Doors.

Activities / Services of the Program

Intensive support to improve a young person's relationship with their family through:

• identification of family conflict issues
• family meetings/mediation
• development of skills and strategies to use when conflict occurs
• referral to short and long term specialist support services