Fitzroy Learning Network Annual Report | Page 10

Refugee Support Program

The Refugee Support Program has continued to support refugees from diverse backgrounds with their settlement in Australia . This year we have seen an increase in people accessing our service from Iran , Somalia and Afghanistan . Although we have continued to support many families , this year in particular we have noticed more young male asylum seekers in need of housing , education and employment .
We provide support to an average of seven people each day , that come in for counselling , family support , health concerns , housing support , Centrelink assistance , employment support and a range of other matters .
Similar to past years , most new clients are self referred and directed to FLN by friends and family . However , we are still receiving a consistent number of referrals from other agencies , such as Spectrum Migrant Resource Centre , The Connie Benn Centre and Homeground Housing Service . Often these referring agencies provide a similar service to FLN , but are not able to continue working with refugees after the five-year threshold . Settlement support networks , such as the Yarra Settlement Forum , have identified this post-five-year support as a significant unmet need within refugee communities settling in Australia . It is fortunate that FLN programs continue providing support to clients who have been in Australia for more than five years .
Special thanks to the PMF Foundation for their generous support in funding this program .
Our Women ’ s Wellbeing program is grateful to again receive sponsorship from the Clifroy Community Bank , so we were able to continue this amazing program for another year . Therefore , the weekly wellness classes of yoga and dance continue to meet at FLN every Thursday from 12pm to 1pm . We have around eight to fifteen women who regularly participate . They come from countries such as Somalia , Afghanistan , Eritrea , Vietnam , China and Sudan .
These classes encourage improved health and happiness , through gentle and fun exercise . The project also gives marginalized women the opportunity to meet other women and build trusting relationships , in a positive social environment . All women are encouraged to come along and join in !
8 Fitzroy Learning Network Annual Report 2012 / 13