2021-22 Family Life Annual Report

Acknowledgements

At Family Life, our focus is to eliminate discrimination in the service we deliver and the workplace we provide. We welcome, embrace and encourage the diversity of all of our staff, volunteers, clients and community.

All the individuals who make up our organisation, respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the country on which we live and work. We especially acknowledge the Boon Wurrung / Bunurong people, and other peoples of the Kulin nation on whose ancestral lands Family Life provides services to the community. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and acknowledge their living culture and centuries of custodianship of these lands, which were never ceded. We acknowledge that the land on which we stand always was and always will be Aboriginal land.

Who We Are

Every family deserves to live in a safe and supportive community.

Everything we do supports this through our family and individual support services, community strengthening programs, a network of community stores, a vibrant engaged volunteer community and passionate skilled staff.

We strive to develop innovative solutions to achieve our vision of capable communities, strong families and thriving children.

We are proudly purpose-driven, independent and not for profit.

Our Values Respect

Family Life embraces diversity and the rights of all people.

Inclusion

Family Life supports individuals and families to participate in their communities.

Community

We understand that Family Life exists as part of a network of relationships and interactions vital to everyone’s health and wellbeing.

Empowerment

Family Life enables individuals, families and communities to make connections and achieve change.

Our Purpose

Transforming

Our Vision

Capable Communities

Adults, young people and children learn and participate within supportive communities.

Strong Families

Families experience positive wellbeing and strong and respectful relationships.

Thriving Children

Children and young people experience optimal development and are safe from harm.

lives for stronger communities.

Family Life has been working with vulnerable children, families and communities since 1970.

CEO Report

It is incredible to think that a year ago we were still grappling with Melbourne lockdowns, and here we are now, adjusting to a new “living with the pandemic” world. We recognise that this new ‘COVID normal’ is not without its challenges for our clients and our sector.

More than ever, providing our services, fostering connections and supporting community engagement are vital for our families. We will continue to provide flexible service delivery and program enhancement to ensure they are supported and able to thrive.

Amidst the uncertainty, Family Life has shone. The dedication, innovation and unwavering commitment to the children, families and community we serve are clearly evident in this year’s report.

We have continued to deliver quality programs, strengthen networks, engage widely with our stakeholders, and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which we operate. Our expansion of family violence services was significant throughout the period. 2,626 families were linked with and supported by our services during this time. The progression of our multi-modal service delivery model has ensured we can offer clients a range of ways to engage with us.

I am also very proud of our Social Enterprise which took an immense hit throughout the period of lockdowns, but through the team’s hard work has bounced back stronger than ever. Our Community Op Shops are dynamic and friendly spaces, creating positive environmental impact as well as tackling the issues of social isolation and loneliness through

our vibrant volunteering program and community initiatives.

Over the past financial year, we have made significant progress against the five key focus areas outlined in our 2021-2024 Strategic Plan. Entering the second year of our plan, we are well placed to meet our strategic objectives, bring positive community change and improve outcomes for children and families.

Our people have, and always will be, our most important asset. I would like to acknowledge our staff and volunteers who have continued to adapt and respond in striving toward our shared vision. We are also grateful for the continued support of our partnerships, funders, and donors. I extend special thanks to our board for their unwavering dedication and support.

Building on over 50 years of serving our community, and the resilience and strength the organisation has shown in navigating the past two years, we are well positioned for a successful period ahead. I invite you to join us on the journey as we look to the future with optimism and purpose.

Allison Wainwright CEO

“We came from community and exist for community, and we will continue to be there for our community”

Allison Wainwright, CEO

Chairperson Report

In a time of great uncertainty, we have taken steps to put Family Life in a stronger position to navigate with confidence the ever-changing landscape, and support families experiencing challenges and hardship in our local community.

As one of Bayside’s largest family support and family violence service providers, we are proud to be a preferred and trusted service to those who need us.

Community need has continued to escalate through this period, and the organisation has responded, providing expanded service delivery to more individuals and families across our region.

As our focus shifts to the year ahead, we have much to look forward to. Family Life has continued to make progress on our strategic priorities. We are optimistic that with our robust roadmap, we will continue to find impactful ways forward.

During this period, we welcomed a new member of our Board of Directors, Emily Darnett. Emily is a proud Nipaluna woman; she grew up on Yugambeh country and currently calls the Kulin nation home. Emily is a provisionally registered Psychologist and

PhD candidate, specialising in cultural psychology and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health. We are excited to have Emily’s perspective and knowledge on cultural psychology guiding program implementation and support offered to our community.

On behalf of the board, I would like to recognise the great work by Allison, the executive team, staff and volunteers at Family Life, for their dedication and passion for providing the best support and services for our community and championing our mission and values every today.

I am pleased to share the Family Life Annual Report for 2021/22.

Steve Walsh CHAIR

Accomplishments

Family Life has responded to recent challenging times with resilience, commitment and flexibility. We remain firmly and proudly committed to developing innovative solutions to achieve our vision of capable communities, strong families and thriving children.

We conducted

60,327

sessions with clients across our programs and services during the financial year.

We were able to develop and deliver our key programs, services and practice development activities both in person and digitally, enabling us to expand our reach and overall impact.

To build on our all-of-family approach to addressing family violence, we extended our Perpetrator Case Management Service to all people who use family violence, regardless of gender. Family Life is the only provider in the region to accept females.

The expansion of family violence services during this time was significant. During the reporting period we delivered up to 26 groups a week with a mixture of online and face to face delivery, depending on COVID-19 restrictions. This work provides opportunities to connect with victims/ survivors and ensure they are linked with and supported by our services.

Two new Specialist Respondent Case Managers commenced as part of the Alexis Response, working alongside Victoria Police and Salvation Army. The Specialist Respondent Case Managers work to try and engage men at an earlier stage and link them into services after a Family Violence incident has occurred, to support behaviour change and prevent recidivism. The Case Managers are based at the Prahran Family Violence Unit and the Bayside Family Violence Unit.

Despite the ongoing uncertainty and challenges presented by remote learning and COVID-19 restrictions, our School Focused Youth Service coordinators continued to provide students and schools with support for children at risk of disengagement. The team have been working with the schools in the area to implement interventions across the region and has had remarkable uptake.

During the period, the team delivered interventions to

the Bayside, Kingston and Frankston regions.

4,068 students across 41 schools across

In early 2022, Family Life was awarded the Early Help pilot program by the Department Department of Families, Fairness and Housing for Kingston, Bayside, Frankston and Mornington Shire. The Early Help Program delivers a range of prevention and early intervention programs to infants, children, young people and their parents/carers, and can support a family who may be experiencing difficulties and does not know where to go for support or advice. Early Help will work alongside community to identify needs and will work with the whole family to try and improve the current situation by providing the right support at the right time.

Our Integrated Family Services PLUS program (IFS+) commenced in January 2022, and addresses the gap in available support for those who require more extensive support. 36 families will be supported by the program between January 2022 and June 2023; to June 30 2022, IFS+ had accepted 25 referrals for the program and engagement is very positive.

The COVID-19 children’s counselling program commenced in 2020, funded through South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN) to respond to the emerging mental health needs of school aged children as we grappled with the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. During 2021/22, the program had a phenomenal increase in support. This led to SEMPHN contributing additional funding to the program to support more children during the period.

Our family engagement services increased, servicing 2,124

individuals

during the financial year.

The newly designed Family Life Children’s Contact Service (CCS) Model was also rolled out and provides separated parents and their children with an Enhanced Therapeutic Service. The new model has been received extremely well.

Family Life implemented a new Trauma Informed Care Framework with a detailed training plan and implementation strategy, developed a Clinical Governance Framework and established the Clinical Governance Sub-Board.

Reopening our Community Ops Shops after lockdowns, our Social Enterprise achieved significant sales growth against pre-Covid numbers, with a focus on re-engagement of our volunteers and creating inclusive and welcoming environments for the community. A new store was opened in Mordialloc with plans for further expansion underway.

We recently launched The Family Life Wellbeing Program and The Family Life Way Recognition Framework. The awards acknowledge staff living the principles of creating safety, dreaming big, embracing everyone, celebrating diversity, being real and being bold.

Snapshot of our Services

Family Life is a specialised, not-for-profit child and family services organisation that works to build communities, support families and keep children safe.

Our work is delivered with a trauma informed focus and prioritises identifying vulnerable children, young people and families as early as possible, introducing the right supports to enable them to thrive.

Our long connection to the local community has created an extensive network of community partnerships and connections which enhance the mental health and wellbeing of children, young people and families.

Family Safety

Children’s Family Violence Recovery Services Case Management Men’s Behaviour Change Programs

Court Mandated Counselling Adolescent Violence Support

Family Engagement

Individual & Family Counselling

Family Dispute Resolution

Post Separation Parenting

Children’s Contact Services

Parenting Support Services

Family Engagement Programs

Men’s Support Services Families and Community

Families and Community

Specialist Infant Support Integrated Family Services School & Community Services Intensive Preservation & Reunification Case Management Early Help Programs Place-based & Outreach Community Support

Social Enterprise

Community Op Shops

Volunteering Program

Employment Pathways

Social Inclusion Programs Corporate Partnerships

Strategic Plan 2021 - 2024

One year in, and we have made significant progress on our five key pillars. We have progressed the foundational work required to implement the key initiatives to deliver on our pillar aims.

Strategic Plan Outline 2021 - 2024

Amongst the highlights, we have designed new frameworks for trauma informed care and clinical governance, as well as mapped a full operational review to ensure consistent and quality client experience and continued service excellence.

We are engaging meaningfully with our broader community through the development of a strong brand story and engagement across multiple channels.

We’ve focused on re-engagement and growth strategies for our volunteer program to support the planning work that has been done on social enterprise expansion.

Preparations are underway for an extensive Listening Tour initiative, partnering with communities across multiple LGAs to understand the impact of COVID-19 to better inform our service design and partnerships.

We have focused on our people by launching Family Life’s Wellbeing Strategy and The Family Life Way recognition awards, to acknowledge staff living the principles of creating safety, dreaming big, embracing everyone, celebrating diversity, being real and being bold.

Road Map to 2024

Our strategic Plan 2021-2024 guides us to focus on our identified strategic challenges and opportunities, and positions us well for the future with a strong vision for the organisation.

By the end of 2024, we propose that Family Life will have continued to build relationships to partner with the community and further invest in early intervention and community activation programs to give the community a voice. We will have listened and heard the lived experience of those we work with and will support the development of programs and services that are responsive, respectful and empowering for the community as they strive for the best outcomes for themselves and their children.

Our culturally respectful and inclusive organisation will have been accessible to all, including those who have experienced historical trauma, as we seek to level the playing field for those who experience disadvantage, lack of community connection, poverty and social exclusion. Our staff, our greatest change makers, will have experienced wellbeing and delivered person centred, evidence based and informed, trauma aware practice.

We will have worked to build the expansion of a broader sense of community, recognising that people want flexible support, including digital services. We will do more, and do better, by ensuring that we continuously grow and improve our services through agility, innovation and a strong ethic of care.

We will lead responsibly on behalf of our community to ensure sustainability and hold ourselves to account by being transparent and accountable to those who trust in us by measuring outcomes and performance.

Thriving Children

Family Life recognises that for children to thrive, their physical, mental, emotional and social needs must be met. When parents are skilled and confident they form a warm and secure bond with their children and meet their developmental needs.

Parents create a nurturing environment for their children to grow up in, that is free from violence. Children and young people achieve developmental milestones, feel good about themselves and have a strong sense of self-identity.

As we work with an all-of-family approach, Family Life supports families so they, in turn, can provide a safe and nurturing environment for their children. Whether that is help in managing behavioural issues, or concerns about mental health, we support the entire family.

Family Life’s services help overcome the challenges of raising children. We support parents on their journey, helping them to develop practical skills. Every family is different, and we offer a number of child and family services to help families address unique challenges.

“Post lockdown, our Child and Family Services have become more important than ever as the increased need for children’s mental health services remains.

Children and young people experience optimal development and are safe from harm.

We have, and will continue to provide a flexible approach to service delivery to ensure our families remain connected.”

Working with all-of-family

Case Study

Amira’s Story

Ten year old Amira was engaged with our SHINE program over a number of weeks. SHINE is an early intervention and prevention program designed to interrupt the progression of emerging and enduring mental illness for children and young people.

Given the complexity and sensitivity of the situation, the family’s case remained open and work commenced towards navigating a safe passage for Amira and her mum.

The practitioner identified the need to take action and acted as a bridge between the mother and support services while working on a practical safety plan with her. We continued monitoring the mother’s engagement with these services and stepping in when she realised communication was getting too difficult due to her mental health issues.

Working within the parameters of allocated sessions, the case was nearing completion. The SHINE practitioner spoke to Amira’s mother and suggested long term services and strategies to support her. In this same session, the mother disclosed family violence perpetrated against the mother by Amira’s father and that a major reason for Amira’s issues was the father’s undisclosed violent behaviour. It was largely due to the level of trust and connection the practitioner had developed with the mother over time that led to her feeling comfortable finally disclosing this information.

This resulted in Amira and her mother safely leaving the violent family situation and moving into a temporary safe space.

Family Life also arranged to see Amira and her mum in the office for some much needed play therapy sessions.

While the family is still being supported to find long term safe accommodation, Family Life empowered Amira’s mother to move out of the immediate danger that was threatening her and Amira, and work towards a better and safer environment.

Brief Intervention Program

Case Study

Tom’s story

When Tom’s referral was accepted by Family Life’s Brief Intervention Program he had requested a number of supports and resources to assist him in providing the best parenting possible for his ten month old daughter.

Tom’s support requests included assistance with understanding age and stage appropriate parenting, recognising and interpreting an infant’s cues, assistance with engaging with his Maternal Child Health Nurse and the completion of a Child Safe Home Assessment of his home.

Tom was provided with several different resources, in both written and video format, that would assist him now and into the future. These resources focused on a range of parenting topics including behavioural cues, age appropriate development, child safe activities and communication.

After advocating for support from the Maternal Child Health Nurse, it was confirmed that Tom will be provided with ongoing support from them. He now receives the same information and support that

his daughter’s mother receives. With support from Family Life, Tom was able to have a Child Safe Home Assessment completed, which he passed with ease. This assessment allowed him to have his daughter more frequently in his home.

Tom has also registered for the Circle of Security Parenting program with Family Life and will complete this in Term 4. The program will provide him with further knowledge on how to provide an emotionally safe environment for his daughter, whilst also building his parenting capacity and father-daughter bond.

Just before the closure of Tom’s case with the Brief Intervention Program, Tom had his first extended home visit in which he was able to settle his daughter to sleep in his home for the first time. Tom reported this was a really special time for him and acknowledged that without the support of Family Life, moments like this would not have been possible.

The support and resources provided to Tom during his time with us will allow him to provide his daughter with the stable and nurturing environment she needs.

Strong Families

Family Life recognises the importance of individuals’ wellbeing and relationships and its impact on families. When individuals are healthy and resilient, they lead a full life and can overcome personal challenges. They form and sustain positive relationships with family, friends, peers and intimate partners. Individuals are safe and conflict and violence are reduced.

Family Life helps people understand the dynamics and effects of conflict and violence and supports them in managing individual and family challenges.

From parenting advice to family counselling, we offer a number of parent support services. Our services assist clients if they are single, married or in a de facto relationship, carers, young parents, firsttime parents and blended families.

We take an all-of-family, all-of-community approach to build resilience and healthy relationships and are committed to improving responses to child vulnerability and family violence by achieving better outcomes for survivors and communities.

Families experience positive wellbeing and strong and respectful relationships.

Involuntary Client Journey

Case Study

Alec’s Story

Alec engaged with Family Life as an involuntary client through the Court Mandated Counselling Order Program because of his use of family violence.

Alec had a history of problematic alcohol use but his presentation and circumstances were stable at the time of intake, where he reported abstinence from alcohol. He commenced participation in the Men’s Behaviour Change Program (MBCP) but after four to five months, a deterioration in Alec’s mental health was noticed by facilitators.

After Alec disclosed another recent family violence incident and presented as alcohol affected during a group session, further consultation and planning for his support was required. Appropriate safety planning was completed and Alec was offered a referral to the Perpetrator Case Management Program. Alec agreed and commenced engagement in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions.

Family Life practitioners and facilitators worked collaboratively throughout Alec’s engagement, sharing content of the sessions and session planning to ensure Alec was well supported throughout his continued engagement in the Men’s Behaviour Change Program.

Through this collaborative approach, it was decided that an appropriate CBT starting point involved focusing on his adherence to his antidepressants and using CBT to unpack his thoughts, feelings and behaviours in relation to his mental health and medication management.

This supported Alec to focus on self-care, stabilise his mental health and learn supportive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strategies. Alec successfully completed the Men’s Behaviour Change Program and eight voluntary Cognitive Behavioural Therapy sessions. During his final sessions, he highlighted the support and growth he had experienced and is very motivated to engage in further programs within Family Life such as Dads in Focus and the post Men’s Behaviour Change Program.

Alec continues on his journey to establish positive relationships with his children and others in his life. Family Life’s programs will be able to further support Alec with parenting skills, improved communication and support to enable him to build healthy and safe relationships.

“The Strength2Strength group has moved me beyond words, supported my personal repair, given me the strength for my voice, the strength to raise my son to stop the cycle and has allowed me to feel validated”.

Jesse, Family Life Client

The Empowering Voices Women’s Support Group

Jesse’s Story

Case Study

Family Life’s Empowering Voices group was conceived with one aim in mind - recovery based on the empowerment of the survivor and the creation of new connections. The program provides a safe and supportive space for women to come together to build on strengths, foster hope and create connections, empowering them in their next steps in recovery after experiencing family violence.

The Strength2Strength group has moved me beyond words, supported my personal repair, given me the strength for my voice, the strength to raise my son to stop the cycle and has allowed me to feel validated”.

But Jesse’s involvement with the program was not over - Our Strength2Strength team invited her back to facilitate two sessions as an art therapist, something she was training for. It provided her with a platform to share her story. Jesse enthusiastically and laboriously prepared for the sessions, planning activities, and reached out for advice and feedback.

Every group brought together incredible women who bravely shared their stories. Jesse was a participant in the second group, voicing her thoughts, reflecting on her journey, and providing deep insights.

After completing the group, Jesse wrote an emotional email to us: “Not only have I achieved so much from participating in the group, I have on a much deeper level found some contentment by sharing my experience of family violence.

I can move forward now, with my life, and I say ‘my’ because I have finally put some distance and closure on the life I had no choice but to share with my expartner both mentally, physically and through the endless system of legal matters.

During the first art session, Jesse shared her story with the participants. All the women in the group listened in rapt attention as she spoke, asking questions, taking to heart what was said. Jesse proudly wore her scars as a warrior, owning her story and honouring her truth. And in doing so, showed the women that they will emerge triumphant.

This is what Empowering Voices is all about.

Capable Communities

Adults, young people and children learn and participate within supportive communities.

Family Life works in partnership with communities to understand and address place-based needs. When communities work together, families are strengthened, communities are connected and inclusive and individuals have a positive sense of culture and belonging. Community members support each other and participate in work, education and volunteering. Children and young people grow up in safe and supportive neighbourhoods.

Family Life recognises that integrated services with wrap around supports are critical. Equally important is the role of the community to support one another for lasting positive change. From school engagement programs to community activation projects to social inclusion programs, our suite of community strengthening initiatives aims to bring communities together to facilitate change and improve the wellbeing of all members.

Our Community Opportunity Shops provide many great opportunities for our community, and provide a gateway for people to form connections, become less isolated and feel a sense of empowerment.

Whether it’s receiving generous donations that local donors know go back into their local community, supporting friendship and a sense of purpose for volunteers, or for a welcoming space for a chat, the sense of community is very apparent. Our retail presence also provides an opportunity for staff and volunteers to advocate and share details about Family Life programs and services with the community.

Community Op Shop Customer Experience

Kelly’s Story

Case Study

Kelly was the last customer of the day at one of Family Life’s Community Opportunity Shops.

A Family Life team member was serving Kelly and chatting about volunteering. Kelly informed our worker that she had been thinking about volunteering but was not quite ready. Kelly revealed she was experiencing family violence and was in the process of leaving her home environment.

Kelly explained that the first time she visited a Family Life Op Shop, she became aware of the services the organisation provides to the community. Since realising we support victims of domestic violence, she has actively supported and visited all our op shops, commenting that they feel friendly and welcoming.

Our team member, recognising the importance of connecting with our vulnerable customers, continued to listen and provided Kelly with a brochure about our services and how to contact our services team if she required further support.

A few weeks later, Kelly returned to our Black Rock Community Store to shop. When asked how she was going, she burst into tears. Our Social Enterprise team member was able to take her to a quiet place to chat and have a cup of tea. When Kelly left the shop, she was smiling and feeling better within herself.

Kelly shops in all of our community stores because she knows she is welcome, feels safe and that the money she spends goes towards helping others suffering from family violence.

Our ability to show compassion and understanding to those experiencing a tough time, even when they are not ready to engage with therapeutic supports, creates a valuable environment of community connection.

“Family Life recognises that integrated services with wrap around supports are critical. Equally important is the role of the community to support one another for lasting positive change”.

Connect in the Community

Case Study

After conversations with Casey Libraries about reduced community attendance post lockdowns, and recognising the increased demand for mental health support across the community, our Connect program team leader saw an opportunity to link our services to provide stronger support to the community.

Connect is a peer support program offering caring, evidence based interventions to individuals with, or at risk of mild depression and/or anxiety. Family Life organised two of our Connect team members to attend their libraries to attract and support CALD community members with whom the team could communicate in their native languages.

Our team provided three hours visits, three times a week, using their linguistic and cultural skills to provide culturally appropriate service delivery for the library. The team supported community members with their day to day enquiries at the library, promoted local services and simultaneously promoted Family Life’s Connect and SHINE programs.

This community strengthening initiative yielded pleasing results:

• Engagement with 6 to 8 individuals per session

• Conversation with the youth and children attending the libraries to promote positive behaviour

• Support with communication between the library and community members to foster confidence in connecting to this safe and supportive environment

• Facilitation of two group activities for community members attending the libraries

• Multiple community members subsequently engaged with Family Life’s Connect program for further support

Partnering to provide better outcomes to community is invaluable. We are stronger, together.

“The need for connection and community is as fundamental as the need for air, water and food”

Our People

Our ongoing success is driven by our people. Their knowledge, expertise, passion and focus are key to the successful delivery of our services to those most at risk.

The continuing effects of the pandemic in 2021/22 have provided many challenges both personally and professionally for all. More than ever, prioritising health and wellbeing and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion have been critical in supporting our people.

During the period, we implemented our Better Together initiative. Our focus areas for 2022 were reconnection, collaboration and relaunch of the Family Life Way to support our organisational culture.

In May, we hosted a Better Together Staff Day

We launched our Family Life Wellbeing Strategy, including Mental Health First Aid, Paid Wellbeing Leave and Mental Health Training for Leaders, and developed and implemented an improved Family Life induction process to ensure all new staff feel welcome, connected and experience a sense of belonging upon commencement with the organisation.

To continue to strengthen our people-focused culture, we continue to invest in professional development. We were thrilled to implement our Learning and Development Strategy, which involved talent and succession mapping, launching frontline manager training, mentoring and coaching opportunities, and a targeted series of attendance and presentations at sector conferences and seminars.

Based on learnings gleaned during the first years of the pandemic, we continued to refine our Hybrid

Create Safety

Stewardship: We honour our heritage by being socially, financially and environmentally responsible.

The Family Life Way

Be Real

Integrity: We carry out all our work with the greatest responsibility and accountability.

Celebrate Difference

Respect and Recognition: We respect the lived experience of others and highlight their strengths.

Be Bold

Passion for excellence: We embrace continuous improvement and change. We are bold, creative and innovative.

Embrace Everyone Dream Big

Working together: We work with a shared understanding and purpose to achieve our goals.

Diversity: We value and celebrate the richness inherent in differences.

The Family Life Way embodies our organisation’s purpose and provides staff with a defined framework for how we strive to stay true to the Family Life values (Respect, Inclusion, Community and Empowerment). It reinforces how each individual makes a vital contribution as part of the Family Life family and directs them as to how they can best support the communities we serve.

Better Together All Staff Day. Family Life Staff attending an indigenous welcome and smoking ceremony led by Shayne Clarke from the Bunurong Council.

Volunteers

Our community volunteers are vital to the success of our Community Op Shops and Distribution Centre. Not only do volunteers support our operations to achieve environmental impact and create resources to further support our community work, but they create an environment of connection for each other and our community. Our volunteering program promotes social inclusion, provides workplace skills and fosters confidence and purpose in giving back.

After being separated through lockdowns, we were thrilled to host our End of Year Celebration in December 2021 in person, thanking our volunteers for their ongoing loyalty during a difficult period of retail closures and restrictions.

2022 has indeed been a better year, with our volunteers working incredibly hard to build back our Community Op Shops and enjoying the opportunity for reconnection. We made the most of being together again, with face to face training and workshop opportunities and great fun at our big celebration luncheon for National Volunteer Week in June.

To all our amazing volunteers, thank you for your enthusiasm and your incredible contribution –we couldn’t do what we do without you.

A Message from our volunteer

Lance’s Story

“I started as a volunteer at Family Life after the company I was contracting to was sold and my services were not picked up by the new owners. Covid, lockdowns and a changing job market have combined to make finding work difficult.

Volunteering has helped fill the gap left by not working. Working the morning shift gives a reason to shave, get dressed and interact with people. I work one morning at the Distribution Centre and two at the Cheltenham shop. This provides interaction with a wide range of people and work experiences.

Depending on your personal situation, volunteering may provide the opportunity to learn new skills. My work history has been in the Quality area of the Dairy Industry, writing procedures, conducting audits and working with external agencies for certification. Now I can spot a Bali fake Prada at five paces and recognise a Diana Ferrari garment blindfolded. It might not add to your CV but it does keep your mind working and your body active.

The wide range of volunteers means that there will be some with the same interests as you and others that you can learn from or that want to learn from you. The donated items have provided the raw material for my hobbies, with blankets becoming coats, belts used for braided wristbands and ties upcycled into skirts.

Volunteering has also provided subject matter and ideas for my other activities of writing and poetry. My poem about being a volunteer is now in the third version as it has been added to over time.

The social aspect of volunteering has been enhanced by having an Op Shop Pot Luck tea one night as part of the celebration of one year in the location. This was well supported by the staff and volunteers at the shop with only those out of town or with other engagements not attending.

The range of options available means that you can find one that suits you, and any limitations you may have in your life can be accommodated.

What is required to volunteer? I would say that all that is needed is some free time and an openness to new experiences. Family Life and the volunteers will take care of the rest, and you, if you join the crew.

Is volunteering worth it? Undoubtedly, Yes! Aside from the contribution to the community, the people make it an experience to be valued.”

Family Life Volunteer

I have Parkinsons and find that working as a volunteer helps me keep moving as there is a purpose to it. My distinctive step is well known and a “Good Morning Lance” is often heard from behind the curtain at the shop before I get through it.

Lance

Social Enterprise Community Stores

While the first few months of the financial year still presented closures and lockdown challenges for our Community Op Shops, our team of retail staff and volunteers broke out of the final lockdown like someone left the gate open. It would be difficult to imagine a group more excited to be together and connecting with our community.

While our Social Enterprise has always provided an environment for connection for volunteers and community, it has never been more apparent how important the social impacts achieved by our stores are to our local community. This has allowed us to focus our thinking beyond income generation and environmental outcomes, to measurable impacts in reduction of loneliness and social isolation and community strengthening which will influence future programs.

While that planning is underway, the Op Shops have bounced back with gusto. Renewed energy and hard work have seen strong increases in sales compared to pre-Covid results. Our new store in Mordialloc was opened in August 2021 and planning for expansion to the Mornington Peninsula and up the bay to Elwood was underway. Sites have been secured in both Elwood and Rosebud with openings planned in the new financial year.

Monthly ‘Warehouse Sales’ at the Distribution Centre have become an ongoing fixture, enabling clearance of obsolete stock, movement of merchandise through the circular economy, and the opportunity for sales growth. These have a strong and established customer following.

Community connection has been a major focus this year with numerous events held to encourage and celebrate reconnection. We were delighted to host an event to celebrate the I Love To Op Shop Group reaching its 100,000 member milestone in November 2021. In April 2022 we hosted a Festival of Fashion. All our stores collaborated on this fashion show and high tea, with volunteers and customers strutting their stuff on the catwalk and local businesses supporting the event which saw a fantastic turnout and incredible community vibe.

Regular VIP Shopping Nights and store Birthday Celebration Events rounded out the calendar. Early in 2022, we partnered with The Chatty Cafe Scheme to host an ongoing weekly cuppa and chat in our Cheltenham store, a wonderful community connection opportunity.

The success of the stores is a direct result of local community support of the public who donate, shop and volunteer. Approximately 223 volunteers supported our Community Stores and Distribution Centre contributing almost 20,249 hours to our Social Enterprise over the past year and are the bedrock of this program.

Our Social Enterprise is geared up for an exciting period of expansion in stores and growth in social impact.

Board Members

Family Life is a not-for-profit incorporated company limited by guarantee, governed by a voluntary Board. The Family Life Board of Directors is a multidisciplinary group with a diverse range of experiences dedicated to continuing the work of Family Life for years to come.

Chair of the Board and Director

Mr Steve Walsh

Vice Chairs and Directors

Ms Judy Pridmore

Mr David Stewart

Treasurer and Director

Mr Jeff Phillips

Company Secretary and Director

Georgina Cohen Directors

Carmel O’Brien OAM Aneesha Varghese

Emily Darnett

(Appointed February 2022)

Patrons

Malcolm Parks OAM

Graeme Disney OAM

Len Gill

Heather Spooner

2021/22 Treasurer’s Report

For the 2021/22 financial year Family Life completed external audits and achieved compliance with governance and management standards.

In addition, we closely monitored recommendations from the Australian Charities and Not for Profit Commission and the Australian Institute of Company Directors, to ensure our future readiness as a social purpose organisation. Management has successfully promoted Family Life innovations to support government reform directions delivering expansion of our service footprint and revenue growth. This is reflected in our end of year surplus of $621,960, down from a surplus of $1,407,219 in 2019/20.

Planned capacity building investments across the organisation have continued in the past year, building on the substantial investment made in prior years. These essential investments improved our operating model and have played a substantial role in supporting our people to pivot and adapt to a COVID environment. Investment has included enhanced cyber security and the provision of Information Technology upgrades which has been pivotal in our ability to respond to the global pandemic and virtual service provision. Another area of investment has been the strategic support of the Family Life Foundation raising awareness of our work with partners and the broader community as well as the onboarding of the Customer Relationship Management tool, Salesforce, to facilitate better management of our supporters, donors, volunteers and community.

The surplus achieved this year can be attributed to efficiencies created by our capacity building investment, extended periods working from home resulting in a reduction in operating costs and the deferral of some of the planned investment in strategic projects.

Government funding increased by $1.7m during the financial year, up 10.5% on last year. We project further income growth in the coming financial year via both the state and federal governments. Family Life’s social enterprise offering delivers employment, social inclusion, environmental recycling as well as income generation. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a very challenging

environment for this area of our business. Continued restrictions forced the closure of our Retail Social Enterprise stores for 5 months in the financial year. Despite this, we recorded a 100% increase in sales revenue. 2020/21 has seen a challenging environment for attracting charitable donations. To respond to this Family Life continues to prioritise generating income to fund innovation and support the community. We work to translate research into practice, allowing opportunities to intervene early where social needs are identified and work with the community to reduce and prevent social problems.

Financially, this strategic approach to invest for the future and grow our impact is reflected in our expenditure of $18.9m, an increase of 15%. The Board and management have maintained a strong cash flow and balance sheet for Family Life.

Family Life was solvent as at 30 June 2022 and the Board expects this trend to continue. We invite you to share in our meaningful work by making a personal tax deductible donation.

Jeff Phillips Treasurer- Family Life

Financials

FAMILY LIFE LIMITED STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2022

2022 ($) 2021 ($)

Income from Operating Activities

Federal Government funding 5,826,227 5,634,928 State Government funding 11,972,812 10,463,545

Local Government funding 106,406 124,623

Non-Government grants 368,965 326,021 Donations 104,811 138,689

Voluntary contributions 109

Social enterprises 1,097,963 534,842 Service income 64,253 50,962

Membership subscriptions 9 91

Interest 20,156 39,518

Government COVID Jobkeeper assistance 286,500

Other income 29,890 65,579 (Loss)/gain on investment at fair value through profit or loss (37,209) 59,959

Net gain on sale of fixed assets - 67,136 19,554,283 17,792,502

Expenditure from Operating Activities

Depreciation and amortisation expense 492,723 545,098

Audit and accounting fees 22,811 21,084

Bank charges 18,658 16,736

Finance costs 14,144 28,775 Staffing expenses 14,002,245 11,379,088

Program expenses 2,966,445 3,211,448

Operating expenses 551,709 358,277 Property expenses 863,588 824,777 18,932,323 16,385,283

Net Surplus for the Year 621,960 1,407,219 Other Comprehensive Income

Other Comprehensive Income

Total Comprehensive income for the Year 621,960 1,407,219

Supporting Notes

The current and prior year surplus are attributed to operating cost savings resulting from the extended lockdowns of the past 2 financial years and the deferral of investments into strategic projects. A complete copy of Family Life Limited audited financial statements are distributed at our AGM and available on our Website.

FAMILY LIFE LIMITED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT

30 JUNE 2022

CURRENT ASSETS

2022 ($) 2021 ($)

Cash & Cash Equivalents 5,468,469 5,396,470

Investments at fair value 357,342 397,438 Receivables - Trade & Other 691,646 524,003 Other Current Assets 302,690 255,658

TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 6,820,147 6,573,569

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Receivable – Trade & Other 40,033 Property, Plant and Equipment 1,996,282 1,956,954 Right of use assets 373,483 479,393

TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS 2,409,798 2,436,347

TOTAL ASSETS 9,229,945 9,009,916

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Trade & Other Payables 566,076 616,582 Accrued Expenses 706,578 605,140 Unearned Income 894,711 1,264,345 Interest Bearing Loan 4,582 3,890

Provision for Employee Entitlements 864,394 802,072 Provision for Employee Entitlements - LSL 306,330 373,048 Lease liability 231,524 296,658

TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 3,574,195 3,961,735

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Provision for Employee Entitlements - LSL 70,163 33,383 Lease liability 152,285 203,456

TOTAL NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES 222,448 236,839

TOTAL LIABILITIES 3,796,643 4,198,574

NET ASSETS 5,433,302 4,811,342

MEMBERS’ FUNDS

Accumulated Funds 5,218,180 4,596,220 Reserves 215,122 215,122

TOTAL MEMBERS’ FUNDS 5,433,302 4,811,342

Donor and Supporter Acknowledgements 2022

Family Life gratefully acknowledges the financial grants received from federal, state and local governments as well as funding support from philanthropic trusts, businesses, service clubs, community groups, schools and individuals. We would also like to acknowledge the pro-bono support of our professional services partners.

Anglicare Victoria - Communities for Children Program

Aurora Apartments

Australian Government - Department of Social Services

Balfe and Webb

Barry Plant Bayside

Bayside City Council Bayside Community Emergency Relief

Bayside Glen Eira

Kingston Local Learning & Employment Network (BGKLLEN)

Bennelong Foundation Beta Sigma Phi Brockhoff Foundation Brotherhood of St Laurence CE Family Lawyers Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare City of Casey

City of Kingston

Converge International Country Women’s Association (CWA)

Court Services Victoria Corrections Victoria

Cybec Foundation

Derrimut Weelam

Gathering Place

Deloitte Australia

Domestic Violence Resource Centre Victoria (DVRC)

EACH

Edward K W Ong & Co Pty

Expedition Apparel

EPWOL

Family and Relationship Services Australia

Firbank Grammar Community Glen Education (previously GEKA)

Good Company

Good Start Early Learning Centres

Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand

Good2Give GO Salary Packaging

Hampton Primary School community

Harris Scarfe Hartwick Property Herbert Smith Freehills HWL Ebsworth Jesuit Social Services Karma Currency Foundation

K&L Gates KCL Law

Leading Teams Lions Club (Brighton)

Lowe Design & Build and family and their Trade Partners

Malcam Investments Pty Ltd

Mornington Peninsula Shire

Mr Alan Curtis

Mr Alan Grisdale

Mr Clyde Allison

Mr David and Mrs Franca Stewart

Mr Fred and Mrs Monica Hofmann

Mr Geoff and Mrs Jane Thomas

Mr Graeme Disney OAM JP

Mr Jeff Phillips

Mr Karl Treasure

Mr Len Gill

Mr Malcolm Parks

Mr Merv and Mrs Vauna Jaensch

Mr Nickolas and Mrs Anette Matys

Mr Richard Ruth

Mr Steve Walsh

Mr Tony Burton Ms Ann Lazzaro

Ms. Carmel O’Brien OAM

Ms Heather Spooner Ms Sue Jaensch

Mums Supporting Families In Need

Neighbourhood Houses Victoria

Nairm Marr Djambana - Gathering by the Bay Frankston Vic No To Violence Optus

PayPal Giving Fund Peninsula Health Philanthropy Australia Ray White Real Estate, Cheltenham

Rotary Clubs (Brighton North)

Salvation Army Sandringham East Primary School community

Seawinds Community Hub

South Eastern Centre Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence (SECASA)

South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN)

Spotlight Pty Ltd

St Andrews Black Rock Uniting Church St Kilda Mums

St Louis de Montfort’s Primary School Learning Support Officers

St Martins Beaumaris Uniting Church Swinburne University Tamarack Institute TaskForce Community Agency

Team Sports for All Techware Corporation (Australia) P/L

The Child Trauma Academy The Fit Shop

The G.P. & M.D. Farrell Foundation

The Leonard Family Foundation

The University of Melbourne

Tulip Street Early Learning Centre

Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA)

Victorian Council of Social Services (VCOSS)

Victorian Government - Magistrates Court

Victoria - Department of Families, Fairness and Housing - Department of Education and Training

- Department of Justice and Community Safety

- Family Safety Victoria Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA)

Victoria Police

Willum Warrain Aboriginal Association Incorporated Women’s Health In the South East (WHISE)

Home Is Where The Heart Is

The saying ‘home is where the heart is’ could not be truer for the Lowe Design & Build townhouses on Green Parade Sandringham.

Lowe Design & Build have generously committed to donate the proceeds from one townhouse from this build to Family Life to help us support vulnerable families and children in the local community.

Work has been going along at a cracking pace in recent months and the townhouses are nearing completion and looking beautiful. The main structure is established, the soaring windows and cosy fireplace have been installed. Contractors are now focusing their attention on internal finishes like joinery and lighting with landscaping and decking to commence shortly.

Family Life recently hosted an event at ‘Sandy by the Bay’ to thank Lowe Design & Build staff and the amazing contractors who have donated their skills and time to the project. It was wonderful to hear from Matt and Brian Lowe about how much the project has meant to them and at the same time reflect on their strong association with their suppliers. All of which has contributed to such a successful and smooth build. Family Life’s Chair, Steve Walsh, and Director of Services, Brian McDowell, also spoke acknowledging the significant contribution this project will make to our work in the community.

The Lowe family has supported Family Life for more than 30 years. Initially through Liz and Brian Lowe, both generously donating their time and skill, and now with Matt, the Lowe Foundation and their incredible team. We are so grateful for their ongoing commitment to our work.

Join the Family Life Family

There are lots of different ways that you could help us to support vulnerable members of our community.

Giving so that we can support others:

• give the gift of ongoing support by giving regular monthly amounts

• gifts in celebration of a birthday, wedding or anniversary

• give a gift in memory any time to celebrate the life of a loved one

• planned giving (during your lifetime or a gift in your will)

• workplace giving is a powerful yet easy way for employees to help

• donate to our online fundraising appeals

Ways you can get involved:

• volunteer opportunities directly supporting families, in our community or our op shops

• corporate and community partnerships to collaborate in a meaningful way

• Student placement partnership opportunities for education providers

• corporate volunteering to help motivate and inspire your staff

• become a Family Life Ambassador

• workshops, webinars and training courses are available for individuals, community groups and for professional development

Other ways you can support:

• support our Community Christmas Appeal

• nominate to be a Collection hub for Christmas food hampers and toys

• hear our latest news by following us on social media

• stay up to date by subscribing to our eNewsletter

• support us by donating your pre-loved items to our Opportunity Shops

• interested to join our team? All current vacancies are listed on our website

If you can help or would like more information, get in touch:

Family Life Community Engagement Team

Phone: +61 3 8599 5433

Email: communityengagement@familylife.com.au

Visit us here: https://www.familylife.com.au/

All donations over $2 are tax deductible.

Family Life 197 Bluff Road Sandringham, Victoria 3191 Phone: +61 3 8599 5433 Email: info@familylife.com.au familylife.com.au

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Family Life Opportunity Shops FamilyLifeOpportunityShops familylifeshopau

Family Life Opportunity Shop locations visit familylifeLifeLocations

Some names and photos have been changed in case studies to protect the individual’s identity

Family Life Limited

ABN: 37 712 782 209

ACN: 606 542 590

Copyright © Family Life 2022

In relation to Victorian Government Department of Health and Human Services funded programs:

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.