Families in South Western Sydney can now access early parenting services with the opening of a new start of the art centre at the newly redeveloped Campbelltown Hospital.
The facility is run by Karitane, a provider of parenting support services.
NSW health minister Ryan Park officially opened the Karitane Early Parenting Service, which will further enhance NSW family support services during the critical First 2000 Days of a child’s life.
The service is co-located alongside Campbelltown Hospital’s new and expanded maternity, paediatric, women’s health and mental health services, key features of the $632 million stage two redevelopment.
Mr Park said the integration of services ensures a holistic and wrap-around approach for all family members, making it easier than ever for parents to receive the care, support and guidance they need during the crucial early years of their child’s life.
“More than half, 52 per cent, of all admissions for Karitane’s residential services originate from within South Western Sydney Local Health District,’’ Mr Park said.
“The opening of the Karitane Early Parenting Service at Campbelltown Hospital represents a pivotal moment in our journey towards providing exceptional support to families, not only in South Western Sydney but across NSW.’’
Member for Campbelltown Greg Warren said he was proud his electorate would be home to this service.
“I am delighted the partnership between Karitane and South Western Sydney Local Health District has resulted in this unique centre, with onsite access to intensive parenting services at Campbelltown Hospital,” Mr Warren said.
“Working together, we can ensure every child in NSW receives the best possible start in life.’’
Karitane CEO Grainne O’Loughlin said the support service provider has been a trusted partner for more than 100 years for NSW families.
“In this time, we’ve seen 30 per cent of all new parents needing professional care, with many requiring intensive residential stays to support their more complex parenting needs,’’ Ms O’Loughlin said.
“Our Early Parenting Service will ensure our exceptional care continues for future generations of families.’’
South Western Sydney Local Health District acting chief executive Sonia Marshall said the early stages of life shaped future learning, behaviour and long-term health.
“Our valuable partnership with Karitane is allowing us to build a healthier future by providing life-changing care for children and their families in their early years, with the opening of this new centre,’’ Ms Marshall said.
The Early Parenting Service has a broad offering including:
Residential Unit: 3-night or 4-night service that provides a comfortable and supportive environment for new parents in need of intensive support and guidance. The unit features 19 rooms designed to accommodate families with a welcoming and nurturing environment for everyone. There is also a culturally inclusive space designed to support the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Virtual residential parenting service: NSW families who cannot travel to a residential unit or prefer to receive support in their own home environment, can receive a personalised 5-day online service with overnight support. This service is available for families across NSW including those who live in regional and remote locations.
Toddler Clinic: Tailored support and expertise for families with toddlers navigating the challenges of early childhood.
Perinatal Infant Mental Health Support: Specialised care to address the unique mental health needs of both parents and infants.
Karitane’s commitment to serving families across NSW includes a combination of place-based services in local communities as well as hybrid and virtual care through the organisation’s “virtual village’’.
In addition to the new Campbelltown parenting centre, Karitane will continue to support families at its integrated child and family hub in Carramar, offering day stays, toddler clinics and perinatal infant mental health services.
For more information about Karitane Early Parenting Services, visit karitane.com.au
