2013-2014 Annual Report
Family Life
Purpose
Transforming lives for stronger communities.
Vision
Capable communities, strong families, thriving children.
Mission
Through effective services, support and connections, enable children, young people and families to thrive in caring communities.
Values Respect
Inclusion Empowerment Community
Indigenous Acknowledgement
Family Life, and all the individuals who make up our organisation respectfully acknowledge all Aboriginal people and their ancient and ongoing connections to culture and country. In particular we wish to acknowledge the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung-Wurundjeri people of the larger Kulin nation in whose ancestral lands Family Life provides services to the Melbourne Community.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Who we are
Family Life is an entrepreneurial community organisation contributing to changes in policy and practice, in the areas of child wellbeing, family violence prevention and social enterprise. Through our community development and engagement activities, partnerships, and specialised services, we work to strengthen families and promote wellbeing for all.
What drives us
We are driven by the belief that every child has the right to grow up safely in the care of their families with the support of a caring community.
What we believe – our theory of change
Holistic effective evidence-informed services, community-partnerships, support and connections, developed in response to the diverse needs of the community, enable families to do well.
Connect Care Transform
Inputs
Professional staff
Outcomes
Families prosper and do well
Trained volunteers
Increased social cohesion
Community partners
Meaningful engagement with the community
Members of the community $ from government, philanthropists and the community
Increased community safety
Impact
Reduction in welfare and health costs Reduced burden on government and the tax-payer
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Family Life
What mums, dads, grandparents and carers told us about their experience of Family Life’s services:
96% said they were listened to
97% said they were respected
97% said they were supported
81% said they either mostly or completely achieved their goals
“She was understanding and receptive of everything I said. Her feedback and suggestions were eye-opening, realistic and effective.”
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
In this report Message from the President.......................................................................................................................6 Message from the CEO................................................................................................................................. 7 Patrons and Board members......................................................................................................................8 The Future - Whole of Community...........................................................................................................9 Meeting Family and Community needs................................................................................................ 10 Strategic Pillars............................................................................................................................................. 11 Highlights of 2013-2014...............................................................................................................................12 Supporting Families................................................................................................................................12 Family Support.................................................................................................................................................. 12 Stronger Families ....................................................................................................................................13 Counselling......................................................................................................................................................... 13 Family Law Services .......................................................................................................................................14 Treating and Preventing Family Violence ....................................................................................... 16 Family Violence Services...............................................................................................................................16 Wellbeing for Vulnerable Children ....................................................................................................17 Child FIRST ......................................................................................................................................................... 17 Community Bubs ............................................................................................................................................18 Children’s Mental Health (SHINE) .......................................................................................................... 20 Children’s Contact Services..........................................................................................................................22 Life Long Learning...........................................................................................................................................22 Supporting people to learn, earn and volunteer.............................................................................24 PeopleWorx........................................................................................................................................................ 24 Strengthening Communities .............................................................................................................. 25 Creating Capable Communities.................................................................................................................25 Creating Capable Leaders ............................................................................................................................27 Our People................................................................................................................................................28 Staff...................................................................................................................................................................... 28 Volunteers ......................................................................................................................................................... 30 Thank You......................................................................................................................................................31 Message from the Treasurer..................................................................................................................... 32 Financials...................................................................................................................................................... 33 Service Area Map......................................................................................................................................... 35
Message from the President
The 2014 financial year has been another year of significant achievement for Family Life, with the agency responding well to challenges on multiple fronts. Just a few highlights: · Our services continue to deliver excellent results, and we expanded in scope and geography, with step outs into Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong. · The agency has established a strong relationship with our new federal government. Family Life’s whole of community model focusing on early intervention and prevention has long been a working model of the new government’s Civil Society policy. · We are an anchor partner with Impact Investing Australia, which aims to greatly harness the use of non government funds to fund social programs. New funding sources are needed as governments face budget pressure from an ageing population, slower economic growth and the end of the mining boom.
The past year is tinged with sadness with the death of our employee, Cathy Browning, in tragic circumstances. Violence is all too present in our community. Through external support and the support of one another, our staff continued to deliver services to vulnerable families in very challenging circumstances and I commend them for their resilience and dedication. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank: · all staff for their ever impressive dedication and attitude, led by our visionary CEO, Jo Cavanagh OAM and her executive team. · our wonderful 400 plus volunteers who underpin the agency’s work. · the following who provided pro bono services to assist the Board: Balfe and Webb, K&L Gates, Malcolm Parks, Herbert Smith Freehills, Mark Howard and CE Family Lawyers. I would also like to thank my Board colleagues, all of whom are volunteers, for their invaluable contributions and support. The agency is well positioned for the challenges ahead. All staff, members and supporters can be excited about our future opportunities to continue to “Transform Lives for Stronger Communities”. Len Gill
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Message from the CEO
At June 30, 2014 we signed off on the delivery of our previous 3 year plan for 2011/14, and confirmed our next 3 year plan taking us through to 2017. Our achievements include: - transitioning prevention and early intervention funding across the change of Federal Governments, with even stronger commitments, and 5 year contracts signed with Department of Social Services for Family Support and Family Law Services; - increased evidence informed practice, integrated with social innovation and emerging knowledge, for transparent reporting, led by our expanded Research and Evaluation Unit; - reviewed our business model to drive social and financial outcomes through social enterprise to meet gaps for responding to community needs. This includes employment pathways for diverse individuals needing tailored support; managing quality large volunteer initiatives; community engagement; and reduction of waiting lists for high need / high risk services like Children’s Contact Services. These results and more, are presented in our summary print Annual Report with further detail on our website. With the professional support of Reach Your Potential International we have documented our goals and measurable strategies for the next chapter of Family Life’s Vision and Mission. We have achieved national and international recognition, and partnerships, to enhance our effective local and place based whole of
community approach to individual, family, community, systems and social change. We are positioned for leading with government, business, academia and progressive community colleagues, new solutions for mitigating future costs by transforming lives for stronger communities, and renewed civil society. Innovation, enterprise, and collective impact initiatives will drive our engagement with new funding partners from strategic philanthropy and Impact Investing Australia. In our rapidly changing world, we need to move quickly with what we know works, and more patiently to find new ways for what is clearly not working. This requires new and courageous supporters and funders, prepared to fail forward, through learning from what went wrong, for finding high impact ways to change inequality into equality, the dysfunctional into effective. Please follow our progress via our continuously improving website and social media communications. This time of fiscal austerity, and government budget deficits, is an opportunity for us all to step up to values-led action, as active citizens, to protect, promote and progress all the best that Australia has stood for in the past, and with even greater inclusiveness and prosperity for our ageing population and our children’s future. Please join with us and contribute your financial and citizen support to the valuable efforts of Family Life staff and volunteers. Jo Cavanagh OAM
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Patrons Dr Roger Riordan AM – Successful software developer, Trustee of the Cybec Foundation and Fellow of the Trinity College at the University of Melbourne. Generous benefactor of our Community Bubs program.
Mr Graeme Disney OAM – Former Mayor of Bayside. Holder of the Attorney General’s Department Award and the Federation Medal.
Board members Mr Len Gill – President - Bachelor of Engineering and a Member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. Professional non-executive director.
Ms Lesley Coleman – Master of Administration and Bachelor of Arts. Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at Monash University’s Australian Centre for Justice System Innovation.
Ms Karilyn Fazio – Vice President – Master of Organisational Coaching, Bachelor of Arts and Diploma of Education. Executive Coach, specialising in leadership development.
Mr Richard Ruth – National Sales and Marketing Manager for M5 Networks Australia.
Mr Grant Douglas – Vice President – Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Engineering. General Manager of Cope Transport.
Mr Stephen Tickell – Diploma of Teaching, Certificate of Business and a Licenced Estate Agent. Director of the Hocking Stuart Real Estate Franchise Group.
Mr Mark Vassella – Treasurer and Public Officer – Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Commerce and has completed Australian Institute of Company Directors course. Chief Executive, BlueScope Australia and New Zealand.
Mr Mark O’Leary – Certified Financial Planner. Financial adviser and Managing Director of Eluvia.
Ms Heather Spooner LLB – Secretary – Bachelor of Laws. In 1987 was appointed a Magistrate and more recently has worked as a Coroner.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Mr Jeff Phillips – Bachelor of Economics and a Chartered Accountant. Chief Financial Officer of Bennelong Funds Management.
The Future – Whole of Community
Government
Partners
Research Institutes
Business
Research Evaluation and Impact Analysis
Social Enterprise
Children
Communities
Service Centres
Families
Young People
Community Houses and Outreach
Community Engagement and Leadership
Philanthropy
Donors
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Meeting Family and Community needs
Currently Family Life data is determined by the requirements of different government programs. In 2014-15 our new Client Information System will allow consistent units of reporting and data aggregation.
Community Bubs Child FIRST Children and young people live safely at home
Family Support Family Relationship Centre and Services Family Violence Treatment and Prevention Services Family Relationship Centre
Parents resolve conflicts and have strong relationships Children are resilient and mentally healthy Families are supported in their neighbourhoods and communities People have pathways to employment and education
Relationship Counselling Parenting Order Programs Children’s Contact Services SHINE Children’s Mental Health Services Creating Capable Communities Creating Capable Leaders Community Houses PeopleWorx & No Interest Loans
*Data available from Family Life 2013-14 Service Outcomes report. To improve outcomes for our clients and the quality of our data and information, next year we are updating our Client Information System.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Poverty
Homelessness
Social Isolation
Unemployment
Mental Illness
Family Violence
Family Life’s contribution Social and Economic Issues addressed by Family Life Child Abuse and Neglect
Outcomes
Strategic Pillars
2014-2015 - Forward Plan Area
Strategic Goal
Community Impact
Have grown social and economic outcomes through effective relationships, prevention and earlier intervention, innovation, and research and evaluation.
Influencing Policy
Family Life has a reputation as a trusted partner and thought leader that informs, educates, advocates and influences at all levels.
Engaging Stakeholders
Productive engagement of diverse stakeholders through an effective and integrated communications strategy.
Operational Excellence
Have a “whole of agency� commitment to the most effective use of evidence, data integrity, analysis, performance measurement and compliance to deliver consistency, quality and the efficient use of resources.
Financial
Have built the financial sustainability and security of our mission by growing income streams, including discretionary income; and building the business acumen of our managers.
Culture Development
Have a workplace community where our people are; committed to our mission, capable, work as a team, achievement-focused and know they are valued.
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Highlights of 2013-2014 Family Life leverages government $ (tax payer funds) to attract business, philanthropic, community and social enterprise income to create blended value and impact. This year we helped approximately
7,000
people including families, children and young people.
Supporting Families
428
Family Support
Families helped
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Integrated Family Support (IFS) is a voluntary service offered to families to build their strengths and capacity. IFS focuses on the well-being and safety of children, young people and families by providing support through a case management model. IFS practitioners work in collaboration with families to
74%
74%
of parents said that communication within their family had improved
of parents reported that their family relationships had improved
85%
86%
of parents said that the confidence to ask for help had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘ a lot’
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assess their needs, develop goals and action plans and actively work together around strengthening relationships, developing interpersonal capacity and supporting the family as a whole.
Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
of parents reported that they had learned new skills to use in the future
Stronger Families
520
Counselling
people came for counselling sessions
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Staff offer counselling aimed at strengthening family relationships and provide support during pre and post separation and when new relationships form. Assistance is available for individuals, couples and families to achieve and maintain healthy and positive relationships.
86%
88%
of clients reported learning new skills and knowledge
of clients reported being better able to manage issues
94%
88%
of clients reported being more confident to use services
“She helped me to see and understand my situation more clearly so that I could separate it from myself and begin to believe in myself again.” “He listened and paraphrased well. Very insightful. Kind, caring and skillful.”
of clients reported counselling to be very helpful
“She understood my situation and how emotionally things affected me. She was able to give me advice, guidance and resources that helped me in my decision to be a stronger person. She was like an angel sent to me to help me through the hard time in my life.”
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Stronger Families
3546
Family Law Services
Family relationship centre sessions
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Family Life provides a range of services for families going through separation. 1. Family Relationship Centre 2. Parenting Orders Programs 3. Children’s Contact Services 4. Family Dispute Resolution At the heart of all of these services is the well-being of children. Parents improve their communication skills and focus on what is in the best interests of their children. The high level of anxiety, anger or other complex emotions felt by parents when they are going through separation, requires our staff to be highly skilled to provide these services.
Children’s Contact Service
Parenting Orders Program
of parents reported that their relationship with their child had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘a lot’.
of parents reported that their children experienced less conflict
54%
43%
of parents reported experiencing less conflict in their family
50%
of parents reported that family members felt safer
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
75% 75%
of parents reported communicating better regarding their child’s needs
75%
of parents reported that their relationships with their child had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘a lot’
One Family’s Story
After several individual counselling sessions, enough improvement had occurred that the counsellor was able to meet both parents together for a joint mediation session. This was tremendous progress for the family, given that all previous mediation, years of counselling and going through the Court process was unable to bring about any significant change within the family, nor were the parents able to be in the same room together given the high level of conflict and distress between them. The parents were able to agree on a number of issues regarding their child, including the amount of time she would spend with each of them, how they would each encourage and support the child’s relationships, individually and together as parents to maintain a healthy relationship with the child.
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Treating and Preventing Family Violence
Family Violence Services Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
With family violence on the increase1 and costly2 for the community, Family Life is under pressure to meet the growing demand for our family violence services. Our specialist staff, work closely with our family support team to provide counselling and group services for men and women. We offer specialist men’s behavioural change programs aimed at challenging men to understand the impact their behaviour is having on the wellbeing of their children and (ex) partners.
89%
of men said they had changed their behaviour by the end of the program
100%
of women reported an improvement in their physical and emotional health and said they felt better equipped to handle everyday situations
71%
of women said they and their children felt safer after their partner attended Family Life’s men’s behaviour change program
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Supporting women to make informed decisions, ensuring their own safety and that of their children is central to our response. This is done through group-work and individual counselling sessions. The service also offers specialist therapeutic services for children exposed to violence in their homes. Family violence is a complex insidious problem. More research is needed into understanding the long-term effectiveness of family violence programs.
“I feel safer because of his awareness of the law and the effects of his violence on the children, however I feel less safe in regard to his use of financial abuse.” A mother using the service 1. Sentencing Advisory Council report (2013) showed an increase of 72.8% in reports of family violence incidents to Victoria Police between 2004 and 2012 (Domestic Violence Victoria web site) 2. Violence against women and their children cost the Australian economy $14.7 billion in 2013. (The Cost of Violence Against Women, KPMG, 2013)
Wellbeing for Vulnerable Children
815
Child FIRST
families were directly helped by Child FIRST.
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Child FIRST provides a community-based information and referral service to support vulnerable children and their families. As facilitating agency for 1o partner organisations and 2 consulting agencies, Family Life supports families to access a range of integrated family services and responds to parenting-support, drug and alcohol (mis)use, mental health issues, family violence and other
issues impacting on the home environment and the safety and wellbeing of children. 815 families were directly helped by Child FIRST. A further 490 families and professionals received assistance when they phoned for help and advice.
88%
said that they were satisfied with the way they were involved in the planning of their support needs.
“I can’t say how grateful I am for you looking into this.” “Thank you so much, you’ve been so much help.” “Thank you you’re the only one who has been helping me.”
“Thank you for pointing me in the right direction and putting my mind at ease. My conversation with you was great and I felt like I was really getting the help and support I needed. I actually smiled when I got off the phone!”
“You made our life better, Thank you.”
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Wellbeing for Vulnerable Children
43
families – 100% of babies stayed living safely with their families with the support of the community
Community Bubs Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Community Bubs works to improve outcomes for babies and their families by strengthening parenting and community support, optimising the growth and parent’s care of children from pre-birth to four years. Community Bubs has proven to be successful by integrating responses with a range of family support services provided at Family Life.
“Strong empirical evidence exists for investing in prevention efforts during the first few years of a child’s life through programs like intensive home-based interventions.” Dr. Deborah Daro (Chapin Hall, University of Chicago) Over the past 11 years, Community Bubs has helped approximately 250 babies where significant risk-factors were present, and who were at-risk for child protection involvement and placement in out-of-home care. Combining intensive home visiting by both professionals and trained volunteers, with a strong focus on helping families connect with
community resources, Community Bubs helps vulnerable infants to thrive and live safely in the care of their families in their own homes. This year, 43 babies and their families in the Community Bubs program stayed living safely in the care of their families with a range of community supports the program offers.
Why was the 10-year Community Bubs reunion held in the late afternoon? The original babies in the Community Bubs program are all now either school children or teenagers, and could only attend the party after school. It was wonderful to see so many happy thriving children arrive at the party with their proud parents.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
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Wellbeing for Vulnerable Children
278 217 1,899
individuals:
Children’s Mental Health (SHINE) Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
group participants: attendees: Community
Social Enterprise
With an increasing number of children experiencing signs of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders, Family Life has developed a range of therapeutic one-on-one, group and classroom activities designed to help children develop the skills and strategies needed to cope with the complexities and stresses in their lives. SHINE is also available for children whose parents have mental health issues. With valued financial support from the Federal government, SHINE has expanded into new catchments, schools and local communities. Our evidence indicates the importance of prevention and early intervention strategies for child and adolescent mental health. SHINE is helping to improve
the lives of children and their families whilst reducing the overall social and economic costs associated with mental illness, by intervening earlier in the lives of children and young people. Our new ‘How are you feeling today?’ website and app enable children to talk about their feelings. (www.shine.asn.au)
88%
of parents reported that family relationships had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘a lot’
84%
of parents reported that their confidence to ask for help had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘a lot’
85%
of parents reported that their child’s behaviour had improved ‘mostly’ or ‘a lot’
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Mum’s depression was getting worse and her daughter was having trouble sleeping and concentrating at school. During 6 sessions with the Family Life SHINE specialist, the little girl began to share her feelings and worries. She understood that she would not catch her mum’s mental illness. She learned how to make a cup of tea and a simple meal and importantly she learned strategies for calming her mind whenever she became worried and withdrawn. Strategies of deep breathing, mindfulness and drawing have all helped her to cope. During the school holidays she participated in Family Life’s school holiday program where she made new friends with two girls who were also exposed to issues of mental illness in their home environment. The girls know they can contact each other for support.
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Wellbeing for Vulnerable Children Frankston and Cranbourne families: supervised contact visits
Children’s Contact Services
change-overs Bayside families: supervised contact visits
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
720 827 31
Social Enterprise
An increasing number of children don’t have the chance to see their non-custodial parent after their parents have separated. The effects can be distressing for children, usually long-term and have a significant impact on the parent who is not able to see his/her child. These families are often struggling. Court Orders have been made due to issues such as family violence, alcohol and drug misuse, mental illness and financial hardship.
The Practitioners undertake a family violence assessment, and liaise with the Courts, Family Lawyers, Independent Children’s Lawyers, Schools, Health Providers and other agencies.
Family Life provides Children’s Contact Services (CCS) to provide a safe and supervised environment for children to visit with their non-custodial parents.
While the Services in Cranbourne and Frankston are federally funded, the Bayside Children’s Contact service which was established in March 2014 operates as a social enterprise, suitable for families that can afford and are willing to pay, as an alternative to lengthy waiting periods at the government funded CCS programs.
The parent who has the care of the child is able to enter via one gate and door, and drop their child off. The other parent is able to enter the Service from a different gate and door and access highquality supervised time with their child. Family Life CCS practitioners meet with each parent and the children to assess the situation and their perspectives.
Over the last year, many of the families reached self-management and parents moved towards no longer requiring supervised time with their children.
Life Long Learning Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
Family Life commenced governance of Life Long Learning in 2013 to enable the development and evaluation of this innovation at Mornington Park and Wallaroo Primary Schools with children who are at risk of disengaging from their education.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
The following stories have been modified to protect the identity of the families; however the essence of the stories is accurate. These stories paint a poignant picture of the complex situations being experienced by the children. Both children were living with dad however on many occasions he left them unattended for several nights in a row. Mum sought a Court Order and the two children now live with her. Contact visits at the Service enable the children to still see dad, but only under supervision. Mum was self-medicating with tablets and alcohol. Dad sought to have Contact Orders so that any visit mum had with their children would be supervised. Things are progressing well and mum is attending the sessions together with her mother, enabling the children to have contact with their grandmother too. Dad presents with mental illness and although he comes to the sessions at the Service he is struggling to engage with his three children. Dad is accessing services at Family Life to support his situation, remaining connected to health workers and his lawyers, to improve his parenting skills and relationships with his children.
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Supporting people to learn, earn and volunteer
14
unemployed people
PeopleWorx
10
students from special schools
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
What do unemployed people need to get a job and become active members of the community? - - - -
Work experience Training and education Access to professional services And most importantly… Personal support and encouragement
Set in opportunity shops and a warehouse, Family Life’s PeopleWorx social enterprises provide unemployed people and students at special schools, with opportunities to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to participate in society either by getting a job, going on with further education or becoming a volunteer in one of our Opportunity Shops.
Community
Social Enterprise
Trained adult volunteers enable the running of the shops and warehouse and provide support and encouragement for the PeopleWorx participants. Thanks to the generous support of Trusts and Philanthropists, the PeopleWorx social enterprise demonstrates civil society in action. Working with various agencies, we delivered two specialist programs to help people overcome unhelpful thinking and get in the right frame of mind to get a job. Family Life worked collaboratively with Monash Health to co-facilitate microfinance training for seven people.
No Interest Loans Need a loan so you can buy an essential household item such as a refrigerator, or a computer for your child? In conjunction with the National Australia Bank and Good Shepherd Youth & Family Service, Family Life offers ‘No Interest Loans’ of up to $1,000. We’ve made 24 loans with no defaults.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Strengthening Communities
1,185
Creating Capable Communities
people participated
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Strong interconnected communities help families to prosper and children to thrive. Through Creating Capable Communities, families gather in supportive environments, to learn skills, form friendships and access both formal and informal support. Most of these activities were conducted in Family Life’s Tootgarook Community House. Family Access Project Launch – 200 people Scribbles Playgroup – 36 sessions x 47 people Little Hands Playgroup – 16 sessions x 36 people Leap Frogs Playgroup – 10 sessions x 34 people School holiday activities – 3 sessions x 25 families Christmas party – 100 people Dad’s Breakfast – 25 men Open House Day – 60 people
Community
Social Enterprise
Neighbour Day is Australia’s national celebration of Community by creating safer, healthier and more vibrant suburbs and promoting tolerance, respect and understanding. Family Life in partnership with the local community, the Shire of Mornington Peninsula and the Department of Human Services organised a Community Day where local children and families could attend the Tootgarook Primary School and Family Life Community House in Carmichael Street to; • find out more about their own neighbourhood • to socialise and meet local neighbours, and • to participate in a range of fun and educational activities Over 600 people attended and 40 exhibitors participated; by all accounts everyone had a great day.
Coffee and Chat – 37 sessions x 18 people A young family with two small children who attended playgroup recently had one of their children admitted to hospital due to a serious illness. The other families who attend playgroup rallied around the family. They cooked meals for them and minded the other child so the parents could go to the hospital.
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Strengthening Communities
Creating Capable Leaders Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Family Life’s Creating Capable Leaders (CCL) Program enables leadership opportunities for participants to initiate and develop community projects, supporting local people to achieve their goals. Family Life delivered two eight week CCL programs covering leadership, communication, community planning and participation, networking, sustainable program planning and evaluation at both Doveton College and Frankston. Graduates are using their skills fundraising to set up a Community Centre for members of the Sudanese community, and maintaining a community garden that they created. Enabling people to develop new skills, knowledge and confidence to be leaders in their communities is a hallmark of the Creating Capable Leaders program.
Community
Social Enterprise
“It has shown me how to put my ideas into action. Where to go for help. The fact that my voice and my opinion matters” “It makes me confident that I can be a leader.” “helps me to create my personal goal and how to achieve (it)” “made me an active person when working with my group (...and) made me involve in community project and schools (eg. volunteer etc.)”
87%
of participants reported: An increased connection to their community An increase in self confidence Being more confident and motivated to seek a job, study and or engage in volunteer opportunities
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Our People
Staff Family Life is a workplace of choice, engaging multidisciplinary, professional staff to deliver diverse services. Staff work closely with over 400 volunteers in a range of roles and programs to support vulnerable children and families within the community. Family Life Staff are highly engaged in the delivery of quality services to children, youth and families. Our qualified and professional staff, representing fields of study including business, education and welfare, ensure services are efficient and effective. More than 98% of respondents to the 2014 Staff Engagement Survey agreed overwhelmingly with the following key statements: • I am aligned to the current mission and values of Family Life • I believe my work and that of my team contributes to Family Life • I believe evaluation can contribute to the quality of a program or service
“I thoroughly love my role at Family Life and feel committed, enthusiastic and supported. I also enjoy the various client challenges that arise on a daily basis.”
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Family Life has a dedicated Research and Evaluation team undertaking joint research activities with Universities and partner organisations. Family Life has continued to invest in the professional development of staff, by the use of evidence-informed research and evaluation to improve practice and outcomes for children, families and community. Adding strength to quality services, Family Life has developed a Program Planning and Evaluation Framework that guides our program design, implementation and evaluation work. In June the Family Life leadership team participated in a three-day workshop to build their capability and confidence in program planning and evaluation. The Family Life Knowledge Hub is an online meeting place for staff to keep up to date and discuss current research, evaluation and policy information. Family Life has achieved certification to the standards of ISO 9001:2008 and the Department of Human Services Standards covering Integrated Family Services, including Child First, Family Violence Support Services and Men’s Family Violence Support.
“Family Life is a great place to work. People at all levels of the agency are warm, welcoming and passionate about the work that they do.”
Services: Child FIRST Community Bubs Community Development Family Law Services Family Support Family and Relationship Counselling Family Violence Services NILS SFYS SHINE Children’s Mental Health
Business Development
Partnerships and Projects
CEO/Board
People and Culture
Finance Research and Evaluation Operations and Information Technology
Community Relations: Social Enterprises Volunteers
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Our People
99%
Volunteers
of volunteers said they feel valued by Family Life.
Where the funds come from: Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
With the support of our 400+ volunteers, Family Life is able to leverage government and philanthropic investment as we work to strengthen local community and build civil society together. 240+ enthusiastic volunteers worked in our Opportunity Shops and Warehouse, mentoring PeopleWorx participants, generating almost $900,000 and recycling tonnes of goods. 41 trained volunteers worked with our Service Teams to provide care and support for vulnerable families, children and teenagers. 123 skilled volunteers worked with our Community Relations team running fundraising events including the Open Garden Day, Golf Day, Cocktail Party and Garden Party, and with our Corporate Services teams, providing administrative and pro bono services.
Top 4 reasons why our volunteers chose Family Life:
86%
46%
To give back to the community
To meet new people
72%
53%
Because they were aligned to Family Life’s mission/values
The help improve the lives of vulnerable children and families
Our volunteers’ feedback:
98%
Satisfied with their volunteer experience
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
100%
Would recommend volunteering at Family Life to others
Thank You
During the year we engaged with government, businesses, trusts, foundations, donors, health services, schools and corporate volunteers; thanks to their support we were able to expand our services in high-need communities and help more families. The full list of supporters may be found on our web site. This list provides an illustration of the breadth of our relationships: Cabrini Health – Malvern and Brighton
Mr Malcolm Parks
Cardinia Shire Council
Ms Christine Richardson
CE Family Lawyers
Philip Coombs Children’s Foundation
Cybec Foundation, Dr Roger Riordan AM
Rotary Clubs
Doveton College
SMRC
EACH
State Government of Victoria
Federal Government
The Besen Family Foundation
Foundation 59
The Hofmann Family
Freemasons
The Ian Potter Foundation
Goodstart Early Learning Berwick
The Newsboys Foundation
Kingston Council
The Ross Trust
Lions Clubs
The Royal Children’s Hospital
Lowe Construction
ToniKaye Foundation
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
VACCA
Federal Government
State Government
Local Government
Community
Social Enterprise
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Message from the Treasurer
Family Life has enjoyed another year of growth with the expansion of our service offerings to City of Greater Dandenong. Income increased by $1.5 million, up by 18% compared to 2012/13. Underpinning our growth was a $1.17 million increase in federal government funding. This represented a 31% increase in federal funding on last year, and is largely attributable to: • The establishment of SHINE Children’s Mental Health Services - Dandenong (Operational in 2013/14) • Parenting Orders Program and Children Contact Service, 12 month funding • Some Federal funding received in 2012/13 was carried forward to 2013/14 to support the strengthening of specific programs This year Family Life’s surplus from all ordinary operating activities was $174,104 (2012/13 surplus was of $273,290). We now own a Community House in Tootgarook; having this permanent base on the Mornington Peninsula inspired a 20% growth ($88,475) in strategic philanthropic donations, on last year. Sales revenue at our social enterprises increased by $120,000, up 15.6% from $769,000. Through prudent management operating expenditure grew by 17% ($1.4million), which is 1% lower than the growth in income.
32
Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Investment Family Life has leveraged a financial offering from one of our community banking partners to purchase our first commercial property – a social enterprise in Highett. Opening in October 2014 this enterprise will enable the expansion of our high impact PeopleWorx program. Investment in infrastructure and services to foster collective impact including a combination of physical, service and digital infrastructure formed additional strategic priorities. Outlook Family Life is preparing for further pressures including inflation and a wage push from the Equal Remuneration Order from Fair Work Australia. Accordingly, to advance our mission, management will continue to seek new funding opportunities in 2014/15. Family Life’s balance sheet is strong with sufficient cash flow to back our liabilities and ensure we can fulfil our contractual obligations. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to investing in our strategic priorities to build a stronger civil society through our whole of community approach. We need your generous support to help our communities and children to thrive. Please join us and support Family Life at http://familylife.com.au/donate Mark Vassella
Financials Southern Family Life Service Association Inc. Statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 30 June 2014. Income from operating activities
$ 2014
$ 2013
Federal government funding
4,948,940
3,777,719
State government funding
2,650,034
2,569,861
Social enterprises
889,042
769,065
Non government grants
519,975
431,500
Donations
186,748
190,721
Interest
166,188
193,614
Fundraising
134,641
122,756
Local government funding
116,444
73,473
Service income
75,139
93,152
Voluntary contributions
51,539
42,657
Other income
25,264
8,437
Membership
10
20
Total revenue
9,763,964
8,272,975
Volunteers’ in-kind contributions estimated
1,300,000
1,200,000
Grand total
11,063,964
9,472,975
Family Life is proud of its exemplary history as a provider of quality services, with full compliance with Federal and State family service audits, and ISO 9001:2008 accreditation under Department of Human Services standards. Our financial reports are audited independently every year to ensure transparency and accountability. In recent years, one of our community banking partners noted that “Family Life’s governance and structure are documented, implemented and maintained in a very sophisticated manner”. Our strong corporate governance is featured in the Department of Human Services website as a case study. (www.dhs.vic.gov.au/for-business-and-community/not-for-profit-organisations/strategicbusiness-planning/not-for-profit-case-study-family-life)
Federal government funding 45% State government funding 24% Volunteers’ in-kind contributions estimated 12% Social enterprises and earned income 11% Donations, fundraising and grants 8% Local government funding 1%
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Financials
Southern Family Life Service Association Inc. Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2014. CURRENT ASSETS
$ 2014
$ 2013
Cash & Cash Equivalents
358,542
1,057,470
Held-to-Maturity Investments
3,011,705
3,137,017
Receivables - Trade & Other
179,661
30,538
Other Current Assets
161,185
68,255
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
3,711,093
4,293,280
Property, Plant and Equipment
3,288,543
2,313,411
TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS
3,288,543
2,313,411
TOTAL ASSETS
6,999,636
6,606,691
Trade & Other Payables
112,675
142,866
Accrued Expenses
437,222
443,176
Unearned Income
670,411
968,167
Interest Bearing Loan
75,297
33,297
Provision for Employee Entitlements
406,630
386,847
Provision for Employee Entitlements - LSL
218,005
172,772
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES
1,920,240
2,147,125
Interest Bearing Loan
752,270
307,846
Provision for Employee Entitlements - LSL
40,054
38,752
TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
792,324
346,598
TOTAL LIABILITIES
2,712,564
2,493,723
NET ASSETS
4,287,072
4,112,968
Accumulated Funds
3,748,930
3,592,911
Reserves
538,142
520,057
TOTAL MEMBERS’ FUNDS
4,287,072
4,112,968
NON-CURRENT ASSETS
CURRENT LIABILITIES
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
MEMBERS’ FUNDS
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Family Life 2013-2014 Annual Report
Family Life is a provider of services across the southern suburbs of Melbourne
Ringwood
5
Hampton Hampton East 6 Highett Moorabbin Sandringham 4 Cheltenham
Children’s Contact Services
Dandenong Doveton
Chelsea
3
Berwick
Community House Opportunity Shop
Cranbourne Frankston
Partnership
7
Cardinia
Service Centre Warehouse Closing December 2014 approx Opening December 2014 approx 5 Closed September 2014 6 Opened October 2014 7 Closed May 2014 3
4
Hastings
Tootgarook
Stories in this Annual Report have been modified to protect the identity of the families; however the essence of the stories are accurate. Please note the statistics quoted in regard to client feedback are based on the number of clients who responded and in some instances are derived from small samples. Some figures may also include double counting of clients due to individuals receiving support via multiple service areas. Most photographs shown are posed by models to protect identification of our clients. Annual Report design by grizzledesign.com.au
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Service Centres
Sandringham 197 Bluff Road Sandringham Victoria 3191
Community Houses
Sandringham 199 Bluff Road Sandringham Victoria 3191
Opportunity Shops
Phone +61 3 8599 LIFE +61 3 8599 5433 Fax +61 3 9598 8820
Phone +61 3 8599 LIFE +61 3 8599 5433
Phone +61 3 9583 0305
Frankston Level 1, 146 Young Street Frankston Victoria 3199 Phone +61 3 9784 0650 Fax +61 3 9770 2906
Chelsea (until approx. Dec 2014) Suite 2, 450 Nepean Hwy Chelsea Victoria 3196 Phone +61 3 9782 7800 Fax +61 3 9773 4624
Cheltenham (from approx. Dec 2014) Phone +61 3 98599 5498 Fax +61 3 9598 8820
Cranbourne 182c Sladen Street Cranbourne Victoria 3977 Phone +61 3 9770 0341 Fax +61 3 9770 2906
Hampton East 12 Keith Street Hampton East Victoria 3188 Phone +61 3 8599 5433 Tootgarook 10 Carmichael Street Tootgarook Victoria 3941 Phone +61 3 9784 0650
Children’s Contact Services Sandringham 199 Bluff Road Sandringham Victoria 3191 Phone +61 3 8599 LIFE +61 3 8599 5433
Frankston Level 1, 146 Young Street Frankston Victoria 3199 Phone +61 3 9784 0650
Frankston South Goodstart Early Learning 134 Frankston-Flinders Road Frankston South Victoria 3199
Cheltenham 316-318 Charman Road Cheltenham Victoria Australia 3192
Hampton (closed 29 Sept. 2014) 355c Bluff Road Hampton Victoria 3188 Chelsea 435 Nepean Highway Chelsea Victoria Australia 3196 Phone +61 3 9773 9761 Frankston (closed May 2014) 13 Playne Street Frankston Victoria 3199 Highett (opened 21 Oct 2014) 14 Railway Parade Highett Victoria 3190 Phone +61 3 9555 2100 Warehouse Moorabbin 12/94 Keys Road Moorabbin Victoria 3189
Phone +61 3 9784 0650
Phone +61 3 9555 2174
Berwick Goodstart Early Learning 1 Cheviot Avenue Berwick Victoria 3806
info@familylife.com.au
Phone +61 3 9784 0650
www.familylife.com.au Southern Family Life Service Association Inc. ABN 37 712 782 209 Copyright Š Family Life 2014