Capital Health Network

Many children under the age of 12 experience trauma and do not receive any psychological support. Lack of support may lead to behaviour changes, nightmares, anxiety, grief and low mood. Children may also not adequately develop many important life skills due to being in a traumatic situation. This could lead to complex mental health issues growing up which could affect their day-to-day lives.

CHN, ACT’s PHN commissioned CatholicCare to deliver the new Stepping Stones program which is a free, therapeutic service for children aged 12 and under who have experienced trauma. Trauma may include a single incident or repeated traumatic incidents such as abuse, neglect or witnessing family violence. Through a trauma informed multidisciplinary team approach, this program supports children and their families to recover from the impacts of adverse childhood experiences (trauma) with a particular focus on the child’s mental health, wellbeing and development.

Over the past year, 45 children completed treatment under the program. Stepping Stones runs three groups for children and their families to engage with each other to provide support. Stepping Stones established strong referral pathways with many ACT-based services and offered a telehealth option to children, parents and carers to comply with the COVID-19 rules.

Testimonial or client story

“My child has thrived since seeing you guys… he loves it so much and doesn’t want it to end….”

“I attended the one-off session yesterday with Mr. X. The session was immensely informative and practical. I am filled with hope now that there is something practical that I can do in the way I interact with my child and support him.”