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voluntary out-of-home care
A Safe Space for Your Child to Call Home
When the safety of your child weighs heavy on your mind, every second counts. Looking into voluntary out of home care is a step filled with concern, but also a profound act of love. Your child deserves to feel safe and be surrounded by care and structure that support their happiness and growth. So take a moment to breathe, and know your child will be in good hands. If you’re ready to explore a caring environment that prioritises your child’s safety and your peace of mind, then it might be time to consider the next steps. Let’s talk about finding a place where your child can be their best self, while you get the support you’re looking for.
Your child's retreat from the family storm
Facing the fact that your home has become a source of tension is like acknowledging a storm cloud has settled over your family—it’s there, and it’s hard to ignore. This isn’t fair to anyone, least of all your child who might feel every ripple of unrest. In these moments, it’s critical to find a solution that allows everyone to breathe easier. Voluntary out-of-home care can be this breath of fresh air. It’s not a permanent move, but a temporary measure aimed at giving your child a stable, calm environment where they can just be a kid again. Consider it a chapter in the larger story of your family’s journey—a chapter where stepping away briefly provides the chance for healing and growth.
When providing full care at home isn't possible, what's next?
Every parent dreams of being their child’s superhero, able to tackle anything head-on. But sometimes, life is more complicated than the stories, and the waves keep coming. It’s tough to keep your head above water, let alone provide the kind of care you hoped for. NDIS voluntary out of home care offers a temporary refuge that makes sure your child’s needs are met with the utmost attention. It’s a helping hand, not a handoff, designed to supplement the care you wish you could give. It not only supports your child but also honours your effort as a parent, keeping the dream of providing the best care alive. Exploring voohc is a positive step, a sign of strength, showing you’re committed to your child’s well-being and your long-term goal of reuniting as a family, ready to continue the journey together.
What our participants had to say
A place to grow — nurturing your child's tomorrow, today
Accepting that your child might be safer or better supported outside your home for a while is a brave and loving decision. It sounds serious, but that’s because it is. Voluntary out-of-home care provides a stand-in for home—one that’s filled with the same care, safety, and sense of belonging, just elsewhere. They need that special space where they can keep growing until it’s time to come back home.
Provide urgent care for children during acute family crises, ensuring immediate safety and stability.
Short-term care that offers primary caregivers a necessary pause for rest and rejuvenation.
Support for children and families during transitional periods, offering stability and care continuity.
Stable, enduring care environments for children needing consistent, long-term support.
Place children with relatives or close family friends, maintaining familial ties and continuity.
Connect children with role models for guidance, skill-building, and personal growth.
Connect with those who can help share the weight of your challenges.
Your child will remember how you stepped up
Someday, your child will understand the tough calls you’re making today. Set things in motion by completing the form. Your information stays private, and you’ll hear back soon with a response that understands the uniqueness of your situation. It’s about getting the right support, and voluntary out of home care could be the key.
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Questions around voluntary out-of-home care
I'm worried the carers won't align with our family's core values and beliefs. How do you make sure this doesn't happen?
It’s natural to feel protective about the values and beliefs that are the cornerstones of your family. Any good voluntary out-of-home-care (VOOHC) provider prioritises matching your child with carers who respect and uphold these important principles. It starts with a detailed conversation about what matters most to you and your child, ensuring these preferences are clearly documented and understood. Careers are chosen based on this information and are often trained to tailor their approach to the unique cultural and personal background of every child they support. After placement, regular check-ins and feedback sessions can keep you in the loop, providing peace of mind that your family’s values are being honoured.
Will my child be able to adjust to a new environment in voluntary out-of-home care service?
Change can be daunting, but children often have a remarkable capacity to adapt, especially when they’re supported every step of the way. Voluntary out-of-home care (VOOHC) providers usually have systems in place to make transitions as smooth as possible. They’ll get to know your child’s likes, dislikes, and what makes them tick, helping them to feel at home in new surroundings. To ease into the transition, you might start with short visits or overnight stays. Also, maintaining some form of routine or bringing familiar items from home can provide comfort during this adjustment phase.
I'm not sure I can afford the best care for my child. What are my options in the NDIS?
Worrying about costs is something many parents face. It’s important to know that financial support may be available through voluntary out of home care NDIS schemes for eligible families. This funding can cover a range of services tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they receive quality care without the financial burden falling entirely on you. To find out if you’re eligible and how to apply, it’s best to consult with an NDIS planner or a financial adviser who has experience with family care and support services.
How do I know the carers will keep me updated on my child's progress honestly and frequently?
Trust is key in any care arrangement, and regular, transparent communication is part of building that trust. Reputable voluntary out of home care services will have communication protocols in place. These might include scheduled updates, access to a contact person for questions or concerns, and regular meetings to discuss your child’s progress. It’s worth discussing your communication preferences upfront to ensure the carer and service understand how often and by what means you wish to receive updates.
What if this temporary solution in voluntary out of home care becomes a more permanent arrangement?
The goal of voluntary out-of-home care (VOOHC) is usually to provide temporary support with the intention of reunification. It’s a partnership, where the aim is to resolve the reasons that led to the care arrangement and prepare for your child’s return home. However, life can be unpredictable, and sometimes plans change. If there’s a possibility that the arrangement might need to be extended, this should be discussed as soon as the thought arises, to plan the best course of action for your child’s long-term wellbeing.
How will changing my child's routine and surroundings impact them, and how can voluntary out of home care help?
Changing routines and environments can be challenging, but it can also lead to personal growth and new opportunities. Providers of voluntary out of home care understand the importance of routine and will strive to maintain continuity where possible, integrating familiar aspects into your child’s care plan. They’ll also work with you to gradually introduce new routines, ensuring your child has the time they need to adapt and feel secure.
Can carers in voluntary out-of-home care handle my child's unique needs and challenges?
Absolutely. Carers in the voluntary out-of-home care sector are often trained to manage a wide spectrum of needs and challenges. When mapping out a care plan, every aspect of your child’s individual needs should be considered and catered to, whether that’s related to health, education, or emotional support. It’s important that you’re upfront about your child’s needs so that the care provider can match them with the most suitable carers.
I feel overwhelmed by the bureaucracy involved in getting the right help. What can I do to navigate this?
Dealing with red tape can indeed feel daunting, but you’re not alone. Many voluntary out of home care services provide support to help you navigate through the necessary paperwork and applications, especially when it comes to ndis support. Some organisations even offer advocacy services to act on your behalf, ensuring you understand the process and receive the benefits and support to which you are entitled.
As a parent, I feel there's a lack of resources for us. Where can I find support?
It can be frustrating when resources seem scarce. However, there are usually more options than you might be aware of. Online communities, local support groups, and services provided through voluntary out of home care can be a wealth of information and assistance. Reach out to these networks, as they can offer practical advice, emotional support, and sometimes even financial guidance. It’s also beneficial to connect with other parents who can share their experiences and perhaps offer tips that have worked for them.
Is there a perfect solution that keeps my family together while getting the help we need?
The idea of a ‘perfect’ solution can be elusive because every family’s situation is unique. However, voluntary out of home care services strive to create a plan that reflects the best interests of your child and family. This doesn’t mean your family isn’t together; it’s about taking different roles in a wider support network to provide for your child’s needs. Openness with care providers about your family’s goals and expectations can help shape a solution that feels as close to ‘perfect’ as possible for your situation.
