CHAMPS - a program to support kids 8-12 years old who have a parent with a mental illness.
It is recognized that children who have a parent with a mental illness have unique challenges that have traditionally been unsupported
CHAMPS is a support program designed for children 8-12 years of age who have a parent/s with a mental illness. The CHAMPS program is an eight week after school program with the following aims:
• Reduce isolation and improve social connectedness
• Provide recreational, social and creative skills
• Provide support and age appropriate information about mental illness and emotional well-being to children
• Develop a safety plan for when the parent is unwell
• Build on children's strengths and promote resilience by bolstering protective factors
In 2011, PGPN will endeavour to establish the CHAMPS program in four areas: Frankston, Rosebud, Hastings and Mornington.
The unique point of difference to this CHAMPS program is the involvement of GPs.
Referral form Fax Referral form to: 9708 8157
CHAMPS Pilot Program in 2010
PGPN successfully brought together mental health and family welfare services with an array of wonderful volunteer support to implement the CHAMPS program for Frankston, Rosebud and Hastings in 2010.
Seventeen children participated in the pilot program in three sites for eight weeks in the last term of school. Children were referred to the program from GPs, community mental health agencies and parents/grandparent. The evaluation of the program with the children showed:
• Significant improvement in the children's knowledge of mental health illness
• Development of friendships
• Significant improvement in the children's behavior
• Increased level of confidence
• Increased level of resilience to coping with challenging issues
An integral part of the CHAMPS Program is to provide free transport and catering for the children. PGPN approached community groups to source this support.
The CHAMPS pilot program was an initiative of the Peninsula GP Network in collaboration with 17 local organisations: Anglicare, Family Life, Mornington Peninsula Youth Services, Good Shepherd, Peninsula Support Services, Brotherhood of St Lawrence, MP Community Health, Hastings Community House, Rosebud Community House, MP Department of Transport & Planning. Bentleigh Bayside Community Health Service, TransAccess, Mornington RSL, Frankston City Council, Foundation 59, and Rotary Club of Frankston.
The unique aspect of the pilot program was that it did not have funding. All services were given freely. The funding sought now will ensure that program can be established, evaluated and maintained in Frankston, Rosebud, Hastings and Mornington for 2011.
Contact Suzanne Heppell for further information on this program on 9708 8019 or via email