A new program to support the emotional and social needs of Australian Defence Force families
Did you know that defence families can face significant challenges and hardships due to the impact of military service on their loved ones? Research has shown that many spouses, partners, parents, children, and siblings of veterans experience poor mental health, social isolation, financial difficulties, and relationship problems. They often struggle to access and navigate the complex support systems that are available to them, and feel marginalised and invisible in the veteran community.
That’s why the Families of Veterans Guild has launched the Social Work and Wellbeing Program, a unique and innovative service that aims to improve the lives of the families of Australian veterans. The program is delivered by qualified social workers who provide trauma-informed care, care coordination, supported system access and service navigation, access to crisis support, and holistic care pathways for families that incorporate both the veteran and civilian support systems. The program also offers wellbeing services that enhance the social and emotional wellbeing of veterans’ families through social connection, peer support, education, mindfulness, and self-care activities.
The Social Work and Wellbeing Program is open to all families of veterans, regardless of their service history, entitlements, or circumstances. Whether you are a spouse, partner, parent, child, sibling, or any other family member of a current or former serving member, you can benefit from this program. You can access the program through referrals, self-referrals, or by contacting us directly. The program is flexible and person-centred, meaning that it will tailor the support to your specific needs and preferences.
We are a unique national family-based organisation in Australia that can meet the needs of all families of veterans. It is an organisation of women built by and for the support and advocacy of other women and their families within the defence and veteran system. It has a long history of leading change and filling gaps in the veteran sector since 1946. The Social Work and Wellbeing Program is the latest example of how Families of Veterans Guild is transforming its organisation and services to increase its impact and close gaps in the veteran system.
If you are a family member of a veteran and you need support, or you know someone who does, don’t hesitate to reach out to us and find out more about the Social Work and Wellbeing Program. You can visit our website, call our team, or email us to get in touch. Together, we can improve the lives of the families of our veterans.
Email: Wellbeing@fov.org.au – Phone: (02) 9267 6577 – Register to our wellbeing Newsletter here
