CatholicCare NT’s new integrated service - CatholicCare NT

A new integrated service approach at CatholicCare NT’s Palmerston office includes family support, and addiction services.

A rise in the number of clients presenting with addictions caused CatholicCare NT to re think a better way to support their needs. It was decided to relocate addictions and family support to Palmerston. With the majority of service providers being located in and around the Darwin area the move also recognised the need for support services to be more accessible to residents in the greater Darwin region.

Jayne Lloyd, Director CatholicCare NT said the social climate has changed dramatically in the past 20 years.

“Methamphetamines are becoming the drug of choice, and more people are presenting with addictions and family issues.

“It can be a scary time for all involved and our experience tells us that if one family member is affected it generally affects the whole family unit.

“One of the many reasons why we’ve adopted an integrated approach is so we are able to look at the bigger picture to link clients to a broader range of programs tailored to their specific needs.

“Having a family focus gives us a better chance of talking things over with families to unwrap the issues. We can help them make healthier decisions for them and their family,” she said.

It is hoped that their new on-street location will encourage more people to drop in and find out what the service is all about. Alongside its counselling services CatholicCare NT also delivers community and education services. Their DAISY program which is a drug and alcohol intensive support program for youth specialises in this type of work. This team attends various events around Darwin and Palmerston including health expos run by schools.

With a current staff number of seven specialising in addictions and counselling this number is set to expand as more family support specialists join the team. Plans are underway to find a larger office space that allows convenient access for clients, but also maintains an on-street presence in the community.

Ms Lloyd said they saw moving to Palmerston as a positive step because the integrated service approach means they can really focus on supporting families as a whole unit.

Contact our Palmerston Office
Monday to Friday 8.30 am to 5pm
Shop 10B Goyder Centre, Palmerston Circuit 
Ph: 8932 9977
Email: palmerston@catholiccarent.org.au