What is Staying Connected?
Staying Connected is a program to help separated dads stay in touch with their children. On this page fathers will find resources and practical hints to support them after separation, as well as contact information about resources, and Incolink’s free half day Staying Connected Information Session.
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If you would like to receive a FREE Staying Connected Information pack from Incolink in the mail SMS your NAME, ADDRESS and ‘STAYING CONNECTED’ to 0427 841 517
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Resources and practical hints
Booklets: The Australian Child Support Agency (CSA) has made a number of booklets available which provide practical hints and tips. You can download these resources directly below:
Online CD-ROM: The Australian Child Support Agency has designed an interactive CD-ROM with videos on Dealing With Separation. It contains practical tips and hints on dealing with separation which you can access here: http://raisingchildren.net.au/dealing_with_separation/separation.html
Free half day Incolink Staying Connected Session
The Session is presented in a relaxed and informal setting. It gives fathers the opportunity to find out relevant information from Incolink Support Workers. It focuses on 3 key areas:
- Looking after yourself
- You and your kids
- You and the other parent
While some fathers might choose to share their experiences, there is no pressure to do so. The program values confidentiality and respects individuals’ privacy at all times. Each participant leaves the half day Session with information about support services. To find out about the next Staying Connected Information Session, contact Incolink Member Services on (03) 9668 3061
Counselling
Incolink counsellors can provide confidential one-on-one or family support to Incolink members affected by a separation. You can access this support in person for a face-to-face counselling session or over the phone by calling Incolink Member Services on (03) 9668 3061
Other Support Agencies Contact Information
| Agency |
Phone |
Website |
| Child Support Agency |
131 272 |
www.csa.gov.au |
| Mensline Australia |
1300 789 978 |
www.mensline.org.au |
| Relationships Australia |
1300 364 277 |
www.relationships.com.au |
| Kids Helpline |
1800 551 800 |
www.kidshelp.com.au |
| Lifeline |
131 114 |
www.lifeline.org.au |
| Beyondblue |
1300 224 636 |
www.beyondblue.org.au |
| Raising Children Network |
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www.raisingchildren.net.au |
A Program for Separated Fathers
Incolink is offering a FREE program, Staying Connected, to separated fathers in the Victorian building and construction industry. Incolink has been running the Staying Connected Program for several years, having conducted a number of workshops, with positive feedback and significant changes seen in the participants of the program.
Sadly, we know that the number of relationships breaking down is equivalent to those that stay together. We also know that separation has a major impact on children as well as the parents, and this program helps to lessen that impact. Incolink’s Member Services team have been professionally trained in delivering this award-winning national program.
How does it Work?
Staying Connected is a FREE half-day course with between eight and 14 participants. The program provides simple, practical and achievable ‘hints and tips’ to help men take care of themselves, take control of their lives, communicate more effectively and ultimately stay connected to their children.
The program follows a simple three module format:
- Taking care of me
- Me and the other parent
- Me and my kids
Each participant receives a high quality pack of information, including booklets and CDs to take away with them, and follow-up support from our Incolink Counsellors is also available.
“Going to this course was great. It opened my eyes and helped me realise I wasn’t alone in this. I’ve tried a few things that have made a big difference already! I wasn’t sure how this could help but I’m really glad I went.” (Incolink Member & Staying Connected Participant)
The Staying Connected Program is an ongoing FREE program available to Incolink members.
For all inquiries regarding the Staying Connected Program please contact Mary Salopek on 0416 114 139
Click here to download the brochure
Incolink Member Services Department
Contact Member Services if you have any queries relating to member benefits, including training and employment advice, financial rights, counselling and support, drug and alcohol problems, health and wellbeing program.
Email Member Services: memserv@incolink.org.au
Telephone Member Services Direct: (03) 9668 3061