Aboriginal Family Support Services
Together with the community
Safe Pathways
The purpose of the Safe Pathways program is to engage Aboriginal men, women and children in programs that are designed to address issues relating to family violence and related matters. The premise is that strong families have the capacity to become strong and safe communities.
What the program offers
Services provided include:
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One-on-one support
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Community awareness and family violence programs
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Therapeutic and recreational community activities
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Development of partnerships with local service providers and schools.
Active Girls group
This activity based group runs on Monday afternoons during school term. The girls who attend are generally aged from 11-13. Issues covered include relationship building, self esteem and body image, exercise, healthy eating and keeping safe. AFSS participation in the group encourages local Aboriginal girls to get involved in the program.
Women's Group Oodnadatta
The group provides a platform for peer support with a therapeutic focus to build capacity in the community to deal with issues associated with family violence. It is designed to encourage, empower and strengthen women to work together and support each other in making the community a safer place for everyone. Activities include painting, sewing and crafts to build self esteem and confidence. The program provides information sessions to ensure that the community has access and pathway referrals to other services.
Tjitji Tjuta Inkanyini Pukulpa playgroup
This supported playgroup provides a safe, nurturing and child-friendly environment. Activities organised by AFSS staff include cooking, painting, craft activities, reading, singing in language and dancing. Lunch is provided and parents learn about healthy eating, feeding a family on a budget and the importance of good hygiene. Other agencies support the playgroup with services including health and dental visits.
Men’s Group
The AFSS Men’s Worker helps Aboriginal men to meet their legal obligations including Court attendance, meeting bail conditions and responding to Court outcomes. This ensures that Aboriginal men are not engaged in lengthy dealings with the criminal justice system.The Men's Worker facilitates information sessions on Intervention Orders, Victim Impact and anger management. Clients are also helped to deal with housing issues, Centrelink payments, banking matters and referrals to drug and alcohol services. The Men’s Worker also assists many transient men on a daily basis, ensuring they are accessing health services, and encourages and mentors young men through the local football club.
Service areas
The program is available in Coober Pedy.
Want to find out more?
Email afss@afss.com.au or phone (08) 8205 1500.