Family Violence Programs

Community • Empowerment • Support

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 and Connect

An 8-week art therapy group for women who have experienced family violence.
When: Tuesdays 12pm-2pm  Date: 6 February 2024

The Road Towards Recovery

A 9-week psycho-education group for women who have experienced intimate-partner violence.
When: Tuesdays 12pm-2pm   Date: 10 October 2023

Sunshine Circles

An 8-week song and play-based program for women and their children
who have experienced family violence.
When: Thursdays 10-11am    Date: 8 February 2024

Courage to Heal Program
A 12-month group therapy program to empower and support victim-survivors of intimate-partner violence.

Cost:
Free
Where:
Waratah House, at a confidential location within the City of Whitehorse. Accessible via public transport.
When:
Thursdays 10am-12:30pm commencing 2nd May 2024

"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