A–Z Service Directory

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Support and Education Groups in Melbourne Eastern Region

Forms

 

o    Programs in the eastern metropolitan region for families where a parent has a mental illness - Term 2 2018 programs (download).
o    CHAMPS  (Children and Mentally ill parents) is a suite of peer support programs for children of parents who have a mental illness or mental health issue. Current CHAMPS programs are found listed in the pdf above.

The Eastern Health 'families where a parent has a mental illness' (FaPMI) coordinates direct programs for families; some are run in partnership with other organisations.

The aim of the programs are to give children age-appropriate information about mental illness. They can meet other children who may be in a similar situation and to learn about healthy coping strategies. These programs compliment the support workers who work with the families.

These programs include:

  • CHAMPS Peer Support Program, a structured 8 week program for 8-12 year old children held during the school term at various venues in the eastern metropolitan region. The aim of this program is to provide age appropriate information and support through worksheets and activities.

  • Martial Arts as Therapy Program, an 8 week program which combines the basics of behaviour management with the principles of martial arts

  • Kids Club, a monthly peer support program for FaPMI families who have previously been involved in CHAMPS programs. Kids Club has a recreational emphasis.

FaPMI Family Fun Day

The FaPMI Family Fun Day will be held late in 2018 This event is open to ALL families where there is a parent with a mental illness. Please contact Bronwyn Sanders on 0408 291 580 if you are interested in supporting/sponsoring or attending this event. 

Newsletter

Eastern Health's FaPMI program publishes a quarterly newsletter for families where a parent has a mental illness:

Frequently asked questions

What happens in a CHAMPS program?

The programs provide fun activities while also giving children age appropriate information about mental illness, opportunities to meet other children who may be in the same situation and to learn about healthy coping strategies.

Who can refer to CHAMPS programs?

Health professionals who are working with families where a parent has mental illness, can refer to the Champs programs. However as the Champs programs are restricted by time spent, it is advised that the referrer put the family in touch with ongoing support before and after the program.

How do I refer to the CHAMPS program?

Use the CHAMPS All Programs Referral Form to make a referral.

Address
 Murnong Clinic 4 Bona St Ringwood East 3135
Contact

P (03) 9871 3988 F (03) 9871 3977

E: fapmi@easternhealth.org.au