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Cafs Post Separation Support

Post Separation Support

Helping Families Find Their Way Forward

At Cafs, we understand that separation can be one of the most challenging times in a family's life.

The emotional toll; hurt, anger, fear, loss and loneliness can affect everyone involved, especially children. That’s why our post-separation support services are designed to help families navigate this transition with care, clarity and compassion.

Post Separation Co-Parenting Program (PSCPP)

Putting Children First

Separation can be tough, but co-parenting doesn’t have to be. The Post Separation Co-Parenting Program (PSCPP) is a six-week online and face-to-face course over the school term, designed to support separated parents where conflict may be affecting their ability to parent in a child-focused way.

This parenting group program provides a safe, educational space for parents to learn how to move forward post-separation by focusing on their children’s wellbeing. Through guided sessions, parents explore emotional awareness, communication strategies and practical tools to reduce conflict and build healthier co-parenting relationships.

While the program includes limited case management support, its core focus is on helping parents shift their attention from past relationship issues to what matters most - their children.

Children’s Contact Service (CCS)

Safe, Supported Time Together

At Cafs, we know that separation can make it difficult for children to maintain safe and meaningful relationships with both parents and other significant people in their lives. The Children’s Contact Service (CCS) provides a safe, nurturing and child-focused environment where children can spend time with a parent or significant other, such as a grandparent, who no longer lives with them.

Our family-friendly centre is designed to support families experiencing high levels of conflict or stress during or after separation. We prioritise the emotional and physical safety of children during Supervised Visits and Supervised Change Overs, helping families maintain connection while working toward more independent arrangements.

Supervised Visits

Children spend time with a parent at our centre under the supervision of trained staff. Visits are observed to ensure the child’s wellbeing, and staff may offer guidance to support positive interactions. Visits are time-limited and typically occur on weekends, lasting up to two hours depending on the child’s needs.

Supervised Change Overs

Our team facilitates safe transitions between parents without the need for face-to-face contact. With separate entrances and waiting areas, children are accompanied by staff from one parent to the other, ensuring a calm and secure handover.

Our programs provide practical guidance and emotional support to help parents and carers manage change, rebuild stability and prioritise the wellbeing of their children. Whether you're adjusting to new routines, co-parenting arrangements or simply need someone to talk to, Cafs is here to help.

Our Approach

We prioritise children’s safety while supporting families to move toward independent contact.

  • Focused on the child’s safety and emotional wellbeing
  • Time-limited service with the goal of helping parents eventually manage contact independently
  • Staff work with both parents to build respectful, workable arrangements
  • Court reports or visit summaries can be provided upon request (fees apply)

When CCS May Not Be Suitable

We are unable to offer services in the following circumstances:

  • An active Intervention Order includes the child and no parenting plan or court orders are in place
  • There is an active sexual abuse investigation involving the visiting parent
  • The child refuses contact
  • A parent is misusing alcohol or other drugs and is not engaged with support services
  • Family violence is present and not being addressed through a specialist provider

Contact Cafs

Post Separation Support enquiry

Cafs supports people across Ballarat, the Central Highlands and in some regions across Western Victoria. Please select the option most appropriate to you so we can tailor our services or provide alternative options for you based on your local area and needs.

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Family & Parenting Support

Support for families at every stage — from early parenting and relationship counselling to disability support and family safety, with care that meets you where you are.

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Our Services

Discover how Cafs supports children, families and individuals across the Central Highlands of Victoria with local, trauma-informed services in family safety, housing, youth care and more.