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Month: December 2023

Seeking Survey Participants: Relationship and Separation Service Needs

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Seeking feedback from people who have accessed, or may access, family relationship services and family law system services that support relationship and/or separation issues.

This anonymous online survey takes approximately 30 minutes. Participants will be invited to enter a random draw for one of five $100 grocery vouchers after the completion of the survey.

You can learn more about the study and access the survey link here: https://static.aifs.gov.au/files/fl-survey/PIS-FL-client.pdf

 

Overview of the FRSP Review project

The Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) has been commissioned by the Australian Government Attorney-General’s Department to assess how well the current Family Relationships Services Program (FRSP) services is meeting the needs of families.

The FRSP provides a range of support and education services for separated and separating parents with the aim of improving the wellbeing of Australian families. FRSP services are part of a broader range of services available under the family law system. This will help us to understand the needs of separated and separating families, and whether services are meeting these needs.

Part of this Review includes surveying adults who have separated or are in the process of separating regarding their relationship and separation needs. AIFS is asking people who have accessed or may access family relationship services and family law system services that support relationship and/or separation issues, to consider completing an anonymous, online survey.

The survey intends to capture the needs of separating and/or separated families. This is your chance to inform us of your experiences of these services and your views regarding whether these services meet families’ needs.

If you are interested in sharing your thoughts and experiences, below are the details regarding the survey and how to access it.

 

Online survey

The online survey is completely anonymous and takes approximately 30 minutes. The survey closes at the end of January 2024.

Participation is completely voluntary. Declining to participate, or withdrawing your participation, will not affect your entitlement to services or your relationship with AIFS or anyone else.

Should you wish to participate, you are free to stop the survey at any time, to not answer any questions, and to delete your answers prior to submitting your responses.

Participants will be invited you to enter a random draw for one of five $100 grocery vouchers after the completion of the survey.

 

How to participate

For more information regarding the Review and the survey, please access the participant information sheet linked below. Within this document is the survey link should you wish to participate:

https://static.aifs.gov.au/files/fl-survey/PIS-FL-client.pdf

The participant information sheet provides you with information regarding how your data will be used and stored. Please consider the information within this link before accessing the survey. Any information that is obtained in connection with this research project and that can identify you will remain confidential unless otherwise permitted by you, or as required by law.

 

Contact details

If you would like to discuss this Review, have any problems accessing the survey, or you wish to withdraw your participation, please email: FRSPreview@aifs.gov.au or call 1800 720 142.

The participant information sheet also contains support contact information should you become distressed or upset:

https://static.aifs.gov.au/files/fl-survey/PIS-FL-client.pdf

How to Reconnect After a Relationship Break

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Not all breaks end in a breakup. In some situations, taking a break can be the healthiest step forward for a relationship.

Breaks can be an opportunity to reflect on what’s not working and gain clarity on your needs and expectations.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to reconnecting after a relationship break, but we hope this advice helps you move forward with respect and understanding.

 

Address Past Issues

It can be tempting to get swept up in the romance of reconnecting, but whatever you do, don’t sweep your issues under the rug.

There’s a reason you took a break, and these concerns need to be addressed if you want a happier, healthier, lasting relationship.

Take the time to discuss the issue/s leading to the relationship break, and make space for each other to share your perspectives. Discuss what you learnt during your break and how you’d like things to change moving forward.

It can take a lot of work to avoid falling back into old patterns, so it’s important you both take accountability and commit to your new goals and expectations.

While talking about the past can be painful, these conversations can bring you closer and improve your ability to navigate tough topics together – crucial skills for a healthy partnership.

We offer some great practical tips to have a difficult conversation here.

 

Forgive Each Other

Holding on to resentment and anger for past mistakes is not a healthy place to restart your relationship.

If you can’t forgive your partner or trust they’ll commit to making positive changes, consider whether you really want to continue the relationship or not.

There’s no time limit on your relationship break. If you’re still feeling hurt and need more time to process the problems and whether you can move past them, let your partner know.

Talking to a counsellor can help you explore your feelings and concerns in a safe, non-judgemental space.

Counselling is a great option if you’re feeling stuck or need an outside perspective. Our counsellors won’t tell you what to do, but they will help you gain clarity on what you feel is best for you.

 

Rekindle the Love

Once you’ve resolved your issues and agreed on how you want your relationship to look this time around, you can focus on rekindling the romance.

Put in some extra effort for:

  • Quality time – Chances are you missed each other during your time apart, so now’s the time to enjoy each other’s company with quality time. Booking in a weekly screen-free date night can be a great way to encourage conversation and connection.
  • Flirting – Just because it’s not a new relationship doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve the same flirtation and fun as the first time around. Make your partner feel special with plenty of compliments, affection, and thoughtful touches like love notes.
  • Check-ins – Make time to check in with how you’re both feeling in your relationship and if there are any areas that need more attention. Having regular open, honest conversations will help build intimacy and avoid issues building up.

 

We offer counselling for individuals and couples going through changes or tough times.

Talking to a counsellor can help you work through things in a supportive environment. This can be especially helpful if you and your partner struggle with communication.

You can call 1300 364 277 to make an appointment or learn more about our counselling services here.

In a relationship, you have the power to influence your partner in a positive or negative way. We share tips to bring out the best in your partner here.

What is family mediation?

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Have you found yourself in a family conflict with no idea what to do?

This conflict might be with anyone in your family, including your adult children or grandchildren. You may feel your wishes aren’t being heard or respected by your family.  

There’s no shame in seeking professional help. In fact, a mediator can help explore options for you and your family to safely move forward.

The Senior Relationship Mediation Service (SRMS) provides family mediation for older adults and their families. The SRMS advocates for the rights and wellbeing of older people, supporting respectful communication and fair outcomes.

 

What is mediation?

Mediation is a meeting (or series of meetings) guided by a professional mediator who helps the family resolve conflict and reach a mutually agreed solution.

The mediator acts as a neutral third party to support you to safely discuss difficult issues while building healthy, respectful relationships moving forward.

 

How can mediation help?

Mediation can help families to:

  • Resolve conflict
  • Agree on a way forward
  • Share their hopes and concerns
  • Understand each other’s perspectives
  • Learn healthy ways to manage conflict.

 

What happens in mediation?

Mediation involves a meeting with family members and a mediator in a safe, supportive environment. It’s voluntary and requires the consent of all participants.

The mediator guides the process with an agreed-upon agenda. A mediation meeting can take up to three hours, with the opportunity for additional sessions if needed. You may take breaks in between as needed.

Participants can also meet individually with mediators to privately share their concerns. This can be especially helpful if you don’t feel comfortable or safe raising certain issues with your family members present.

 

Senior Relationship Mediation Service

The SRMS is a free service for seniors and their families.

This service always acknowledges the wellbeing and best interest of the older person.

Additional safe, confidential support is available if you’re experiencing elder abuse. Whether it’s emotional, financial, physical, or another form of abuse, we can help.

“Older persons should be able to live in dignity and security and be free of exploitation and abuse.”
-The United Nations Principles on Human Rights of the Older Person

 

Marianne’s story

85-year-old Marianne* was being cared for by her live-in grandson Mitch.

Mitch was experiencing some personal troubles, and his behaviour was becoming aggressive, especially towards Marianne. Marianne asked Mitch to move out, which he did.

Marianne’s other grandchild was worried about her grandmother, so she contacted the SRMS.

Marianne, her children, and both of her grandchildren (including Mitch) agreed to attend mediation together. Marianne brought along a friend as a support person.

During mediation, Marianne shared that her strongest wish was to remain in her own home for as long as possible.

The mediation lasted for three hours. The family acknowledged Mitch’s mistreatment of Marianne. Mitch apologised to Marianne and showed evidence of changing his behaviours, so Marianne decided to allow Mitch to live with her as her carer again. The family decided together on Mitch’s caretaking tasks and agreed to review the arrangement in six months.

Marianne felt her wishes were heard and honoured by her family, and there was a greater level of family support and supervision for both Marianne and Mitch.

 

If you or an older person you know need help to resolve a conflict, our experienced counsellors are here to help. We can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.

You can learn more about our Senior Relationship Mediation Service here, or call 1300 063 232.

 

*Please note that names and details in this blog post have been altered to protect our client’s privacy.

 

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