New parents in Geelong will soon have greater access to early parenting support with early works commencing the site of the Early Parenting Centre.
The centre will provide parents and carers with the advice and care they need in the early years, including support with sleep and settling, feeding and extra care for babies and toddlers with additional needs.
Barwon Health chief executive Frances Diver was with Minister for Health Martin Foley to unveil a first look at the facility, revealing the design of the multi-million dollar centre.
“This much-needed centre will provide support for hundreds of families in Geelong and the Barwon South West region, reducing the need to travel to Melbourne.” she said.
“We know the first four years can be particularly challenging for families; this centre will provide a holistic approach to common concerns in the early years.”
Barwon Health is committed to partnering with the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative and other groups to create a culturally responsive service.
Early works have commenced on the site, including new car parking and clearing, with the centre expected to commence construction in mid-2022 and be completed in 2024.
The centre will be operated in partnership with Tweddle Child & Family Health Service.
