Centre unravels ties that unwind

By Callan Date
A STRONG family bond is at the core of many success stories and a new government-backed centre in Berwick has been established to help strengthen these ties.
The Berwick Family Relationship Centre opened in July and has already gone about assisting local families, free of charge, in several ways.
Whether it is help in overcoming relationship difficulties, forming new relationships or dealing with the difficult time during separation, there are several services available.
Centre manager Mary Lewis has been at the forefront of the operation since it opened and has already witnessed some troubled relationships getting back on track through assistance at the centre.
Ms Lewis said one of the hardest things for couples to do was to recognise that there was an issue that they may need some help with.
“We have already helped a range of people. From a couple who had never lived under the same roof to one couple who realised they needed some help after being together for 21 years,” Ms Lewis said.
With nine staff working at the centre, the group is experienced and well placed to offer confidential assistance on a variety of issues.
Ms Lewis said it was imperative for couples to look out for the signs that their relationship is suffering.
“If there are children involved, a sign can be when parents start to get an awareness that the emphasis is just on parenting and the couple’s bond is diminishing,” she said.
“You can be still functioning very well as parents, but not spending time together or drifting away from the common things that you used to share together.
“It does take a lot of courage to admit that things are not going too well but we can help people talk through their situation and make referrals to services that we believe can help them.”
But the Berwick Family Relationship Centre is not all about offering help to couples facing tough times.
“When you are going along well you can seek enrichment services to get more out of your relationship.”
Ms Lewis said the centre, one of 25 in Australia that began operating in July, is part of the most significant reform to the family law system in 30 years.
“All new matters involving disputes over children must now go through an attempt to resolve these issues through family dispute resolution before they go to court,” she said.
“It’s about getting the best for the children involved and if this process can be kept out of the courts it is much better for everyone.”
Apart from the location of the centre in Berwick, people can also get around-the-clock help through an advice line (1800 050 321) and a website (www.familyrelationships.gov.au).
To find out more about the centre contact 8768 4111 or visit 38 Clyde Road, Berwick.