A local charity that supports families and victims of domestic violence has changed its name in a bid to expand its services.
Sutherland Shire Family Services has been a leading local provider of support services for families experiencing parenting and family relationship challenges since 1987.
As well as supporting families and victims of domestic violence, it also runs a number of education programs.
The organisation reaches about 10,000 people a year through its programs, which are focused on three key pillars - child, youth and family support; domestic violence support; and education and workplace training.
Its new name - The Family Co - which was launched at a morning tea at its Jannali centre on April 28, is part of its strategy to expand some programs, such as its Toolbox Talks workplace training, throughout Australia.
The morning tea was attended by NSW Attorney-General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman, Sutherland Shire mayor Steve Simpson, state MP for Heathcote Lee Evans and Sutherland Shire councillors Carmelo Pesce and Peter Scaysbrook.
The Family Co chief executive Ashleigh Daines said while the business name had changed, the organisation's core services and purpose would stay the same, and its frontline service would continue to focus on local families.
"We are engaged and committed to the communities we serve, and while the majority of our programs will continue to be focused on providing support to the families of Sutherland Shire and St George, our new name and brand also gives us opportunities to explore service delivery of some of our programs and share our expertise further afield," she said.
"We are energised and motivated to do more for our community - and making our services more accessible to all families and people in need."
The charity provides emotional and practical support to individuals and families, improving knowledge and confidence in managing challenging situations when it comes to parenting and relationships, through education, connections, information and advocacy.
Board chairperson Ann Murphy said the charity remained committed to delivering programs that positively contribute to the lives of clients.
"We will continue to be a holistic wraparound support service for families, helping them feel supported through life's challenges," she said.
"Our commitment to quality domestic violence support and education is unwavering."
The Family Co employs 30 staff at its Jannali and Engadine centres, including a diverse team of qualified social workers, psychologists, family therapists, mothercraft nurses, educators, practitioners and skilled welfare workers.
Most services are free. Families can self-refer if they need help with their child's physical or emotional development, including challenging behaviours, or domestic violence.
The Family Co team is trained to help adults and children with emotional or practical family help; creating stronger social and community connections; helping with children's physical and emotional development; financial and housing assistance; support for people experiencing domestic and family violence; mental health support; wellness support for drug and alcohol use; early parenting support and support for young people and their families.
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