Stronger relationships:
A preventative approach to wellbeing
We know that strengthening relationships and social connections helps to improve health and wellbeing.
In 2024 we completed a project with the Centre for Community Child Health where we explored how influencing support systems and structures can support families through the early years.
Using key learnings from this project, we're working on several initiatives to strengthen relationships and ensure families are supported and empowered to build the skills, knowledge and connections needed for life-long social and emotional wellbeing.
By supporting a strong, connected 'village' of families and communities, we can create lasting, positive change.
The Family Link:
Building connections
for families in Sebastopol
New animation:
How relationships
shape mental health
The Family Link: Building connections for families in Sebastopol
Raising children can be joyful, demanding and, at times, lonely. The early years bring constant change, and families can benefit from support before challenges build up. Strong, connected families give children the best chance for healthy development and long-term wellbeing. However, finding that support, or knowing where to look, isn’t always easy.
'The Family Link', our new initiative based at Vickers Street Community Hub, will be here to help from early 2026.
It’s about making it simpler for families to connect with each other, take part in community life, and find the right support when it matters most. The focus is on strengthening everyday relationships that help families feel supported, understood, and able to support others in turn.
At the centre of the initiative is the Social Connector: A dedicated role working alongside families and local services to:
- encourage friendships and informal connections between families
- help groups stay in touch after a program or event finishes
- make local supports more visible and accessible
- connect families with shared interests or experiences
- notice where families may be missing out, and help bridge the gap.
The Social Connector role is being trialled in Sebastopol and will continue to grow in response to local needs and feedback. The aim is to build connections that last and a stronger foundation for children’s wellbeing.
Meet our Social Connector, Emily
Emily is really excited about launching The Family Link in 2026 and can’t wait to get to know the amazing families in Sebastopol. Emily has lived in Ballarat for 3 years and has really enjoyed exploring all that Ballarat has to offer. She has been very fortunate to meet so many wonderful people in Ballarat through work, volunteering and Auslan classes.
Emily has qualifications in Community Development, Community Services and Criminology and has worked in the community space for 8 years in roles spanning community mental health, innovative justice, and disability. Prior to this she worked in the hospitality and tourism industry for 12 years.
Emily is passionate about fostering safe and inclusive communities where all families can connect, share and thrive.
Our services in Ballarat
We have been supporting individuals, couples and families in Ballarat for over 50 years, and continue to provide a range of services dedicated to meeting the needs of the local community through our centre in Sturt Street. Our services includes counselling, family dispute resolution and our free early matters service for families.
How relationships shape mental health
Our new animation shows the ways everyday interactions can support resilience and strengthen wellbeing across life stages. It invites us to reflect on the role of connection in our lives, and why investing in relationships matters for healthier, more supportive communities.