The Bligh Government has committed more than $2.8 million over three years to help protect children from abuse and neglect as well as providing safe places to live for young people on the Sunshine Coast.
Child Safety Minister Phil Reeves today announced that Lifeline Community Care would receive more than $1.3 million funds to work with families on issues that were placing their children at risk of being taken in care.
“We know the best place for children is with their families, as long as it’s safe, and that’s why we fund groups like Lifeline to work with struggling families to keep their children safe at home,” Mr Reeves said.
“Their family intervention service provides practical, intensive support to families on issues that can cause tension at home.
“They will teach parents skills that relieve stress, family conflict and anxiety – how to manage anger, budget, prepare healthy meals, establish routines and set guidelines in the home.”
United Synergies is also being provided $1.5 million to run a group house on the Sunshine Coast to provide safe places to stay for up to four older boys and teenagers.
“Children and young people in care have often suffered severe abuse or neglect,” he said.
“This can leave them with emotional scars and behavioural issues that make it difficult to live in a foster family.
“The support and care they receive from youth workers and other professionals in care help these young people begin to rebuild their lives, and move on to live with a foster family and possibly even return home to their own families if it’s safe.
“Based on the record of United Synergies and Lifeline Community Care over the past three years, the government will continue to fund and work with these organisations to provide safe and supportive places for these vulnerable children and young people.”
Mr Reeves said it was a sad fact that as at 31 December 2008, about 200 children and young people in the Sunshine Coast area could not live safely at home because one or both of their parents abused or neglected them.
"However, thanks to our community partners such as United Synergies and Lifeline Community Care, children and young people who have been abused or neglected are receiving the support they need, have a safe place to stay and a much brighter future,” he said.
“The Bligh Government’s record $638 million investment in child protection in 2009-10gives these young people another chance to build a brighter future,” Mr Reeves said.
“Despite the global financial crisis, the Bligh Government is committed to maintaining our essential child protection services.”
He said the funds would also support 12 full-time equivalent jobs for Queenslanders.
Media contact: Minister Reeves’ office 3235 9236.
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