Aster Family Support works to increase a family’s capacity for self-sufficiency by building on strengths, enhancing life skills and strengthening community linkages. Supports are generally provided to families in their own homes and communities. The primary focus is on early intervention aiming to promote and protect the health, wellbeing and rights of all children, young people and their families, paying particular attention to those who are at risk. Family support is intended to be a targeted short-term intervention. All families need support from time to time – whether that’s to offer advice and encouragement after the arrival of a new baby, pass on favourite family dinner recipes, sharing ideas for good after school routines, offer suggestions for managing children’s tricky behaviour, or be there to help during times of bigger crisis like mental health problems, addiction, domestic violence or child protection concerns. Family Support can step in when existing informal supports aren’t enough to help the family to get back to where they want to be and are tailored to meet the family’s strengths and needs. Family Support services are generally accessed via referral. Find out more about the referral process here.