Cultural and Literacy Development Hub (The Hub)
Using an integrated approach the Hub is a flexible community literacy program for refugees for 10 weeks, responding to the needs of clients in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere.
Upon arrival new refugee families were finding it very difficult to navigate activities and the various systems to ensure that they met all their obligations i.e Centrelink, AMEP, Child Care & Schools. This was causing the family unit a great deal of stress at an already stressful time.
The local primary School principal and ACCES staff members discussed the option of not sending clients to AMEP straight away but allowing clients to use the interim period of 12 weeks after arrival to start lifeskill development through a community literacy program and enabling the whole family to participate.
This would give the family a chance to learn what was required of them in relation to Child Care, Schools, TAFE and Centrelink and allow the family time to settle and adjust to their beginning life in Australia.
Clients participated with enthusiasm in the community literacy program, there has was limited separation anxiety exhibited by parents and children. Clients demonstrated an eagerness to learn more, develop lifeskills, greater understanding in relation to education systems and with the school enrolments. Very few absenteeism’s from clients during the 10 weeks.
Information sessions on budgeting, personal hygiene, health nutrition, ATM’s, using public transport, family law, parenting, Centrelink etc. Orientation to the local areas, TAFE, hospital, Woodridge State & High Schools. Exposure to experiences University of QLD drama workshop, community celebrations, breakfast with politicians, bicycle workshops, surf life saving,
The local schools are heavily involved and assist with the enrolment of new children into the schools, show families around the schools and generally start developing relationships and an understanding of the educational systems.
AMEP is now being delivered from the Hub which is encou
Improved English proficiency of clients. Early identification of problems before escalation of these problems. Special talents identified and “fast tracked” to appropriate pathways. Development of a community among participants. Increased communication between parents and schools. Children are better equipped to be at schools. Healthier lunches are supplied by the parents and parents have a better understanding of school expectations.
Clients clearly demonstrated a growth and retention of information provided.
Increase in client’s independence, self reliance and participating in community activities and events.
Improved partnerships with local state & high schools, AMEP service provider. This early intervention approach has assisted in becoming responsive and has allowed ACCES Services Inc to anticipate and address matters before they arise.
There has been an increase in clients staying on in English classes and a clear understanding of the need for English language development.
To further continue the program, persist in sharing this program with other agencies to assist with duplication in other areas to assist in positive refugee resettlement.
Looking for other funding options.
Read more:
Submitted by:
Niki Gooch
Settlement Grants Manager
ACCES Services Inc.
92 Wembley Road, Woodridge, QLD, 4114
ph:07 3412 8222
email: nikig@asi.org.au
web: www.asi.org.au
Categories:
Categories:Children and Families, Community Development
Themes:Community Literacy Program, integrated service models, families
Release Date:22-Jun-2009
Date of Study:
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