Fitzroy Learning Network Annual Report | Page 11

Refugee Support

From September to the present , my primary responsibilities continue to be case management for some of FLN ’ s members . The level of case management I provide can be categorised into three levels depending on the nature of the enquiry and the background of the member .
Level 1 : Intensive Case Management
This level of Case Management is reserved for members who are experiencing difficulties leading an autonomous life in Australia . These difficulties range from limited English speaking skills to mental health complications . For these members , I assist with filling-out Centrelink forms ; obtaining documents for visa applications , liaise with external stakeholders , following up on ongoing enquiries and assess further links to meet the needs . As these members experience significant psychological barriers , I meet with them weekly , sometimes several times a week for up to 2 hours each session and sometimes even more time .
Adult Members who fall into this group include previous detainees , members experiencing torture and trauma issues , those with litigation concerns , visa application concerns and / or have Significant depression / anxiety / cognitive barriers .
Level 2 : Medium Case Management
This level of Case Management is reserved for members who are experiencing immediate difficulties , but do not seek ongoing / weekly appointments . These members I may meet with every two weeks , or once a month . However , addressing their concerns is usually time consuming and requires several hours .
Members who fall into this group include those have issues relating to domestic abuse , Housing
claims / contention , Car insurance claims and visa ( spousal / children / humanitarian ) applications **. It also includes Pregnant mothers - requiring housing , Centrelink payments , medical appointments
Level 3 : Light Case Management
This level of Case Management usually involves referring members to other services , calling external stakeholders to assist members to make appointments , assist with Centrelink forms , or actively listening to members who experience isolation and are in need to talk to someone . This group usually are trying to cope with concerns that require my assistance .
During the coming year we will be developing more effective ways of connecting our members with the professional support they need . We are also planning to develop a range of workshops on social and legal matters that will assist our members in becoming more independent and confident in dealing with many day to day settlement issues .
Jasmine Hashim
Note : I do not counsel or claim incidental counselling practice to our members . If they wish to inform me of their difficulties , that is at their discretion . All members are currently aware that I do not hold professional qualifications in the area of counselling or psychology . For those seeking legal enquiries they are also aware that I do not hold professional qualifications as a legal practitioner therefore I am working on the creation of a more effective referral process .
** I do not provide Migration advice and regularly inform members to seek a migration agent and / speak with DIBP regarding their immigration process . I assist on a more practical level - explaining questions on the form , where they need to sign , make sure all questions are filled and they have all required documents . As stated previously I assist with linking with a migration agent , speak with DIBP on their behalf , if authorised by migration agent .
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