Supported Accommodation Services
Intake Service The Intake Service at Catherine House is a vital first point of contact for women in crisis. It goes beyond answering calls — it involves compassionate listening, validation, and providing practical strategies and referrals to support women’s immediate needs. Staff respond with patience and empathy, fostering safety and trust through trauma-informed, person-centred care. Despite our commitment, rising demand has strained our capacity. In the last financial year, we were only able to answer 50% of calls to the intake line. This highlights both the growing need in the community and the emotional toll on staff who strive to offer meaningful support. When women reach us, their relief is palpable. We respond with understanding and without judgment, even when we cannot immediately offer accommodation. With only limited rooms available, intake workers often guide callers to alternative services and assist with referrals.
Waitlist Support Service In response to overwhelming demand and limited physical capacity, Catherine House, with financial funding from the Lang Family Foundation, launched the Waitlist Support Service — an extension of our support services. This initiative brings support directly to women who are experiencing homelessness, at risk, or unsafe in their current housing. Women who have completed intake, or are referred by other organisations, are assigned a case worker. Together, they explore needs, goals, and pathways to secure or maintain housing. The service also offers practical assistance, financial support, and brokerage for rent or mortgage relief to prevent homelessness.
Crisis Accommodation Our Crisis Accommodation Service offers 24/7 support to 20 women in a communal residential setting. It is a place of safety, rest, and renewal. Staff provide holistic, trauma-informed care, helping women rebuild hope and envision a future beyond crisis. Each resident is assigned a case worker who supports them in achieving personal goals, including securing long-term housing. In addition to accommodation, women access a range of in-reach services such as: • Centrelink liaison (fortnightly). • Drug and Alcohol Support Service (DASSA) clinician (twice weekly). • JusticeNet legal support (weekly). • Financial and general counselling (as needed). Many women at Catherine House have experienced significant trauma, often resulting in mental health challenges or substance dependency. Our services are designed to be responsive and supportive, offering access to counselling, treatment referrals, and advocacy.
A high proportion of clients have experienced domestic, family, or sexual violence, either recently or earlier in life. Our integrated support model helps women navigate these complex experiences in a safe and empowering environment. Many women report feeling safe for the first time in years, often sleeping peacefully after prolonged fear and instability. Catherine House becomes a foundation for recovery, affirming each woman’s worth and potential.
Catherine House becomes a foundation for recovery, affirming each woman’s worth and potential.
With thanks to the Lang Family Foundation for supporting our Waitlist Support Service.
22 | Catherine House
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