Bendigo Community Health Service (BCHS) has two settlement programs to help recently arrived people of refugee background make a new life in Bendigo.

• Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP).

This service is for newly arrived refugees.  It uses a strength-based approach to case management.  We support families as they take the first steps in a journey to start a new life in a new country.  The team assist in accessing essential services and orientation to the systems they will need in their new life.  This will include health, education, understanding our law, learning English, using public transport, connections to their local community, training, employment, and understanding the resources available to them.  The aim is to provide the knowledge and tools required on their journey to self-reliance.  For more information go to https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/settling-in-australia/humanitarian-settlement-program

• Specialised Intensive Service (SIS).

This is for people with multiple and complex needs.  The program can focus on service coordination or offer intensive specialised services to ensure broad support. For more information go to https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/settling-in-australia/humanitarian-settlement-program/specialised-and-intensive-services

• Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS).

SETS provides low and medium intensity case work.  We are here to assist with advocacy, information, guidance, group sessions and referral into appropriate services.  The intent for SET is walking with individuals as they continue learning and using this knowledge to make choices about their health and wellbeing, housing, communal and financial participation, education and importantly, their sense of belonging.

Eligibility Criteria

Program eligibility includes many visa types both permanent and temporary.  We also provide community capacity building.  This includes working with community leaders, keeping them informed with up-to-date information and resources, providing volunteer and training opportunities.  We always look for opportunities to integrate, partner and collaborate.   Overview

For more information please call 5406 1200 and ask for the Settlement Services manager.