The Liberal-National Government is providing a range of counselling and support services to families and individuals affected by the current tough economic climate.

Child Protection and Communities Minister Robyn McSweeney said the State Government was providing almost $15million this year to help people in metropolitan and regional Western Australia with financial, relationship and domestic issues.

Mrs McSweeney said many helplines were available as a first port of call to provide advice and support to people who were experiencing hardship or feeling stressed at having to manage a household.

“The State Government funds a number of community services to provide counselling to a wide range of people, including men, women, young people, families and single parents,” she said.

“Financial counselling services are staffed by qualified financial counsellors who provide a free, confidential and independent service for people experiencing financial hardship, particularly those on low incomes. 

“Financial counsellors assess the individual’s or family’s financial situation and work with them to address financial difficulties, including budgeting and debt negotiation. 

“They assist people with information about eligibility for concessions, rebates and bill payment options and can refer people to emergency relief or other financial assistance schemes to help them through a time of crisis. 

“Family counselling services help individuals and families assess their circumstances and relationships, make choices, decisions and plans for the future and develop the skills and confidence to enable them to put their plans into effect.

“People on low incomes can also apply for the WA No Interest Loans Scheme, which provides families and individuals across the State with the opportunity to apply for a loan to purchase essential items, without the burden of interest charges or fees.

“If people are facing difficulties in the current economic climate, they should know that they are not alone and that there are a range of support services available to help them cope.”

Crisis Care is the one-stop shop for all referrals for counselling services.  It is a 24-hour phone service and is available by calling 9223 1111 or 1800 199 008.

Other services include:

·        Centrecare:  9325 6644

·        Kinway (Anglicare WA counselling services):  1800 812 511

·        Salvos Care Line (homelessness):  9442 5777

·        Financial Counsellors Association of WA:  9325 1617

·        Family Helpline: 1800 643 000

·        WA No Interest Loans Scheme: 1300 365 301

·        The Women’s Domestic Violence Helpline: 1800 007 339

·        The Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline: 1800 000 599