SA commits to intensive support service to cope with cost of living crisis

The South Australian Government has announced the creation of an intensive support service for families facing pressures from the rising cost of living in Adelaide’s northern suburbs, committing $3.5 million in funding over two and a half years. 

To be run by AnglicareSA, the program will work with families and support them to create a safe home environment for their children and reduce the risk of removal to out of home care. Part of the service will assist with household management and budgeting to tackle the growing impact of cost-of-living pressures on struggling families.

AnglicareSA were the successful bid from an open tender process to provide the 24/7 service, which will offer customised, flexible support to improve family functioning, child safety and wellbeing.

“Many families do it tough, and some do it even tougher, especially if you add in some complex and challenging circumstances facing families such as cost of living pressures and certain family dynamics,” said SA Minister for Human Services Nat Cook. 

“Through this type of intensive, individualised support, we have the best chance of achieving good outcomes for more families and children. Support workers will get to know their families and will be able to help find ways to address or manage each particular one’s unique dynamic.”

The service will offer a range of emergency assistance through existing and well established programs, supporting with food, financial counselling and new clothing.

“AnglicareSA has been supporting families, children, and young people in Adelaide’s northern suburbs for several years through community-based services that help build resilience, confidence, and social inclusion,” said AnglicareSA Community Services Executive General Manager Nancy Penna.

“We are pleased to continue this connection with families and children in the north of Adelaide through this intensive family support program which will assist, engage, and grow the capacity of struggling families.”

The service is expected to support around 125 northern Adelaide families through to 30 June, 2025. Based on the latest evidence and best practice, the program sees specialist support workers liaise with families intensively over several months.

With help from AnglicareSA workers, families taking part in the program are empowered to address safety risks and to develop the skills and tools they need to best care for their children.

“Every family wants the best for their children, and, where it is safe to do so, we will work collaboratively with families and tailor support to keep children safe and families together,” Ms Penna added.

Further advice and support for families who are needing information, local support services or someone to talk to is available on the Adults Supporting Kids website.