We believe in a society free from family violence, where all people are safe to flourish.
"The ongoing support and warmth of the team is something I never forget, because it has literally been a turning point in my life."
LifeCare supports women and children who have experienced family violence through various group programs. The purpose of these programs is to support, empower and create community for victim-survivors along their journey of healing and recovery.
Courage to Heal Program
A 12-month group therapy program that runs weekly during school terms for women who have experienced intimate-partner violence. The program aims to provide a safe space to witness one another’s stories and be empowered and built up. The program covers four different modules across the year, which are:
- Understanding abuse
- Managing strong emotions
- Healthy boundaries
- Healthy relationships
The program also offers case management support alongside the group therapy sessions. Each cohort comes through the program as a closed group, with intakes opening two or three times throughout the year for new cohorts.
Sunshine House
Provides occasional child care for pre-school aged children to enable their mothers to attend family violence support programs. This occasional care program operates from a trauma-informed perspective and offers Montessori-based activities, providing a safe space for children to play, learn and build relationships.
Short-term Group Programs
LifeCare runs a variety of shorter group programs throughout the year that range from 4-8 weeks in length. These programs include art therapy and a wellbeing program for children. For information on the upcoming schedule, please contact Reception.
Other Details
All of these programs are free of charge and run from a confidential location in the City of Whitehorse (accessible via public transport).
Create & Connect Program
An 8-week art therapy program for women who are recovering from family violence.
Cost: Free
Where: Waratah House, a confidential location within the City of Whitehorse.
Accessible via public transport.
When: Tuesdays 12-2pm commencing July 30th 2024
Treehouse
An 8-week therapeutic program that supports children in Grade 6 to build social skills, self-esteem, manage strong feelings and develop resilience.
Where: Crossway Baptist Church (Burwood East).
When: Wednesdays 4-5:30pm commencing October 23rd 2024
Cost: Free
Sunshine Circles
An 8-week therapeutic program for families impacted by family violence.
Cost: Free
Where: Waratah House, a confidential location within the City of Whitehorse.
Accessible via public transport.
When: Thursdays 4-5pm commencing August 1st 2024.
Courage to Heal Program
A 12-month group therapy program for women who have experienced intimate-partner violence. Be empowered in a safe and supportive community as you heal from the impacts of family violence.
Where: Waratah House, a confidential location within the City of Whitehorse.
Accessible via public transport
When: Tuesdays 11.30am-2pm commencing October 22nd 2024
Cost: Free
Artful Healing – Self-Care Group
Meet with other survivors of family violence weekly to make art, develop a sense of mindfulness and rediscover your inner strength
Where: Waratah House, a confidential location within the City of Whitehorse.
Accessible via public transport
When: Wednesdays 10am-12pm commencing October 23rd 2024
Cost: Free
"This program really empowered and challenged me in ways I never thought possible. Each week we would discuss topics that made me think, self-reflect and most importantly heal. I found strength, wisdom, life skills and friendship and I am forever grateful for the centre and all it represents. It really is a safe haven for us women survivors."
Workshops
LifeCare also offers a range of workshops and activities which enhance the main program. Workshops are available to current and past program participants. Registration is required.
Parenting workshops
Art Therapy classes
Fitness and self-defence classes
Cooking classes
Craft classes
When:
Wednesdays 1:15pm – 2:45pm
(during school terms)
Preschool Program
The children’s program provides a safe, caring, educational and fun program where children can thrive.
For children aged 0-5 years
Includes Montessori-based activities teaching children resilience, confidence, self-discipline and the love of learning
Includes craft and interactive play, music and movement, stories and outdoor play
Provides respite for the mums to focus on their own healing journey
For more information
Call 9886 3899 or email lifecare@crosswaylifecare.org.au