NOFASD Australia, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing and supporting individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), has launched the FASD Support Group. The support group is designed to provide vital support and resources for carers of individuals with diagnosed or unconfirmed FASD.
This free online Support Group is set to start on Wednesday, 28th February, offering a unique opportunity for carers to connect, learn, and share experiences.
According to NOFASD Australia, FASD is a permanent condition that can occur when a developing fetus is exposed to alcohol during pregnancy. Individuals with FASD may experience difficulties in areas such as learning, communication, social skills, and behaviour. Caring for individuals with FASD can be challenging and often requires specialised knowledge and skills.
The FASD Support Group comprises seven weekly sessions, each professionally facilitated by individuals with lived experience of FASD. This initiative aims to empower carers by enhancing their knowledge of FASD, offering practical strategies for daily life, and fostering a supportive community for mutual understanding and collaboration.
During the sessions, carers will have the opportunity to connect with others in similar situations, share their experiences, and learn from each other, leading to improved outcomes for both carers and those they care for.
Early registration is advised due to the limited availability of spaces. If you are interested in joining the FASD Support Group, please register by visiting https://www.nofasd.org.au/contact-us/ or call NOFASD’s Helpline: 1 800 860 613 to secure your spot.
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As we enter 2025, we are filled with renewed energy and optimism for the year ahead. Our commitment to supporting carers and improving outcomes for children in care remains stronger than ever. We are eager to build upon our achievements and create even more meaningful impacts in our community. This year promises to be dynamic and engaging, with a full calendar of events and training opportunities designed to support and strengthen our carer community. From celebratory gatherings like Mother's Day and Father's Day to our regular Carer Connection events and informative morning teas, we create spaces for connection, learning, and mutual support. We are excited to announce our participation in initiatives like the CEO Sleepout, where together, we aim to raise funds, awareness and support for homelessness in our community. Our comprehensive training program, which includes essential first aid, cultural awareness, trauma and brain development and e-safety, demonstrates our commitment to equipping carers with the necessary skills and knowledge to support the children in their care. Stay connected! If you haven’t already, follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be the first to hear about exciting events and activities coming your way. Be sure to check out our website for the latest updates, and keep an eye on your inbox for emails and ENews—there’s always something great to discover! With our expanding team and improved support services, we are excited to offer even greater assistance. Our organisation now includes more CASO Officers, enhanced administrative support, and a one-year pilot program for our dedicated Carer Assessment team. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible support and to increase the number of foster and kinship carers so that we can support more children. We deeply value the strength of our community, and we sincerely thank all individuals, carers, and stakeholders who have supported us in our shared vision for 2024. We look forward to continuing this journey together in 2025, aiming to make it a year of growth, achievement, and positive change for children and families across the Northern Territory. FKCANT is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you need advice, assistance resolving matters with Department of Children and Families (DCF), access to training, or opportunities to connect with other carers, our experienced team is ready to help. Engage with us today and be part of a strong, empowered care community!
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Join in on Pyjama Day this July 19!
Foster and Kinship Carers Association NT invites all amazing mums to an exclusive Mother's Day celebration on Friday, 10 May 2024, from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm at Silks Darwin – Private Function Room, Buntine Rd, Fannie Bay NT 0820. The event is a perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day with blooming flowers, delicious food, and fun brain-teasing trivia. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with beautiful blooms and a beverage. The event will include a beautiful platter lunch featuring a curated selection of culinary delights expertly prepared by Silks Darwin. Guests will also engage in some friendly competition with a captivating trivia session designed to test their general knowledge and share heartwarming facts about motherhood. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams, and guests can join in on the day and meet new mums! This is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow mothers in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie, foster new friendships, and celebrate the shared journey of motherhood. The RSVP date is Tuesday, 7 May 2024. FKCANT Carer Members are FREE to attend, and non-members are welcome to attend for a small fee of $20. To book tickets, please visit the Mother's Day Event Page. For more information about the event, please contact Rebecca at 1300 352 268 or email media@fkca.org.au .
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