ReviewIncorporating Ngala’s 120th Year
2009-2011
2
Eric Kinsella
Ian Hoad
Dr Jackie Scurlock
Hon. Barbara Scott
Martin Black
Peter Young
Vicki Banham
Ashley Reid CEO commencing October 2011
Rae Walter
ChairpersonEric Kinsella BA Macq., DipSIA, FAICD, FCPA
Chairperson from 2010
Deputy Chairperson Hon. Barbara Scott
Treasurer AND Deputy Chair Ian Hoad BCOM W.Aust., CA ICAA
Appointed 2010
MembersMartin Black
Dr Jackie Scurlock
OAM, MBBS, MRCP, FRACP, FRCPCH, DCH
Peter Young LLB
Vicki Banham NZTC, Dip Ed, BaEd, M Ed, PhD
Rae Walter
B Ec, Dip Ed, MLM, GAICDPublic Officer, CEO, Ngala
Building CommitteeConvener E Kinsella
Members I Hoad, P Young, R Hawkins, R Walter, S Higgins
Professional Advisory Committee/Medical Credentialing CommitteeChairperson Dr J Scurlock
Members M Abernathy, W Oddy, Dr J Rampono, Dr V
Banham, M Jacobson, Dr L Priddis, R Walter, E Bennett
Income Generation & Marketing CommitteeChairperson M Black
Members R Walter, H Mein
Finance and Audit CommitteeConvenor I Hoad
Members E Kinsella, R Walter, S Higgins
Governance CommitteeConvenor Mr P Young
Members Dr V Banham, R Walter, E Bennett, H Mein
Board of Directors
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
3
Ngala’s Strategic Directions 2010-2015
Ngala works towards a community where:
• Children are healthy, safe, respected and
develop to their full potential.
• Parents are knowledgeable, skilled,
confident and supported.
• Parents and children enjoy positive
interactions and relationships.
What we want Ngala to beA financial, sustainable and accessible Ngala supporting
confident parenting across the Western Australian
community.
What we doNgala works with families to enhance their experience of
parenting and the development of young children.
What we are committed to and focus on• Best outcomes for children are the focus of
Ngala’s services.
• Innovation in Ngala’s service is driven by the views
of families, practice experience and research.
• Ngala’s approach is inclusive and focuses on the
strengths of communities, families, children, our staff
and volunteers.
The outcomes we want to achieve• Ngala’s range of parenting and early childhood
services is accessible and integrated.
• Parents value the service and support provided
by Ngala.
• Ngala’s growth and sustainability is underpinned by
research and partnerships with parents, communities,
funders, NGO’s, tertiary institutions and business.
• Ngala values and invests in a skilled and
interdisciplinary workforce.
• Ngala uses smart processes and systems to meet
the needs of its clients, funders and stakeholders.
© Robert Castiglione
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
4
From the CEO
It is with pleasure that I
commend to you the 2009 to
2011 report which spans 2010
a great year of celebration
for Ngala as we glimpse back
into Ngala’s 120 year history
and achievements as House of
Mercy and Alexandra Home,
through to Ngal-A Mothercraft
Home and Training Centre,
Ngala Family Resource Centre
and Ngala as it is today.
Highlights of our celebratory year included a wonderful Gala Dinner at
Government House Ballroom hosted by the Friends of Ngala and the launch of a
promotional DVD that focused Ngala’s supporters on services and fundraising
opportunities, the expansion and development of Ngala’s website and online
services, improved marketing and communication initiatives including a
celebration of parenting over 120 years in the Western Australian, linking with
the Indigenous communities during NAIDOC Week, releasing new editions of
Ngala’s books, launching the third edition of the Hey Dad WA booklet with
beyondblue and hosting a forum for Helplines from services across Australia
and New Zealand.
During the year we connected with friends and supporters, people who have
trained and worked at Ngala, clients and service users, as well as government
and corporate partners and community sponsors. I am confident the Ngala
team is building on these connections, ideas and celebrations that will keep on
growing the organisation.
Ngala is continuing to change and evolve to meet changing community needs
as it has done over the past 120 years. Diversifying programs and services,
as well as bringing onboard staff with a range of expertise will allow Ngala to
ensure families in Western Australia are well supported in the important role
of parenting.
In November 2011, I will be retiring after 23 years as CEO of Ngala. During this
time, it has been a privilege to lead Western Australia’s premier early parenting
community service organisation and to work with people passionate about
making a positive difference in the lives of Western Australian families with
young children.
Ngala is now in contact with 40,000 Western Australian families including
about 40% of first time families. In the last 7 years, Ngala’s revenue base has
increased almost threefold from $4million to over $11million – a reflection of
the organisation’s diversity and financial sustainability. Initiatives such as the
Alexandra Village, will further position Ngala to continue innovation and growth
in services to the Western Australian community.
2009 to 2011 saw several important initiatives come to fruition. These included
business cases for the development of the Ngala Institute of Education and
Learning which was accredited as a Registered Training Organisation in May
2011 and a second Early Learning and Development Service which opened
at Perth Airport in September 2010. In addition, Ngala formed a new style of
alliance with Anglicare WA and Mission Australia which resulted in a new venture
called the Swan Alliance. This Alliance was awarded the tender to deliver the
Midland Communities for Children Plus in 2010.
Ngala’s continuing work in translating current early brain development knowledge
into education for parents and professionals, refinement of the Tuned in Parenting
Program and associated work in the area of parental reflective functioning and
attachment, the developing research agenda and initiatives in online services and
activities continue to excite and motivate staff and pave the way for new ways of
engaging with families and evaluating Ngala’s services.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
5
This year we celebrate nine years of ISO accreditation for the organisation;
keeping us on track with continuous improvement and developing smart
systems to support our services. Ngala’s Nurturing the Pilbara partnership
with our key corporate partner Woodside is four years old this year and has
seen Karratha enjoying regular visits by our community parenting team as
well as development of the highly successful Parents Working Away workshop.
A new and exciting partnership with the Australian Children’s Trust will greatly
assist Ngala in developing an Indigenous specific parenting and early brain
development resource.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to Ngala’s service funding
organisations, corporate partners and supporters and my appreciation for the
wonderful relationships I have enjoyed in the community sector during my time
at Ngala. My thanks and admiration also to the Ngala Board of Directors and
to previous Board and Friends of Ngala Executive Committee members with
whom I have worked, for their dedication, knowledge and significant voluntary
contribution to Ngala. My special thanks and appreciation also go to Board
Chairpersons Syd Corser, Russell Hawkins and more recently Eric Kinsella with
whom I worked during my 23 years at Ngala.
Rae Walter
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to Ngala’s
service funding organisations, corporate partners and
supporters and my appreciation for the wonderful relationships
I have enjoyed in the community sector during
my time at Ngala.”
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
6
Board of Director’s Report
Each year at Ngala presents
many challenges and
achievements. The period
encompassing our 120th
celebrations have continued to
see Ngala Board of Directors,
Management and staff
working together to secure
continued growth.
Over the 2009 – 2011 period Ngala has seen significant growth in its operating
budget as a result of new service agreements and projects outlined in the report
to follow. Expenses during the period have remained consistent with 78% of
Ngala’s spending being allocated to staffing costs. Going into the current year,
increases in state government funding across all departments with whom we
have service agreements will assist Ngala to ensure that staff are retained
and remunerated appropriately and support services provide a strong base
for service delivery.
Without the continuing support and confidence shown by the many service
funders, sponsors, partners and donors little progress would be made toward
the outcomes we have set in our new strategic plan outlined ahead of this
report. Service sponsors are acknowledged in the report however we would
like to especially thank Woodside whose continuing partnership has provided
wonderful opportunities for staff to deliver quality services to remote families
and to develop exciting new programs focused on the needs of FIFO families.
I am pleased to report that the Alexandra Village project under the guidance of
outgoing Chairperson Russell Hawkins has made wonderful progress toward
securing a future income stream for Ngala. Stage One is fully occupied and with
sale of several villas in Stage Two, work has commenced on the final 20 villas.
Mr Russell Hawkins stepped down as Board Chairperson in 2010 after 25 years
service to Ngala. Russell’s dedication and commitment to Ngala over the years
has been extraordinary. It was his vision and dedication that was instrumental
developing the retirement village with the purpose of giving some security to
Ngala for the work done with the parents and children of Western Australia. He
also guided Ngala into our new corporate structure that will meet the needs of
the organisation into the future.
Russell Hawkins FCPA FAICD retired from chair 2010 receiving Lifetime Achievement Award from Hon. Barbara Scott.
Eric Kinsella
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
7
The Friends of Ngala have honoured Russell with life
membership and he has been farewelled from his Board
duties. Russell will be missed by all at Ngala when
he makes his final farewell on the completion of “the
village”. We thank the Friends of Ngala for their continuing
fundraising work and promotion of Ngala and its services
especially the contributions to the 120th year celebrations.
Mr Ian Hoad has joined the Ngala Board and I particularly
welcomed him as Treasurer as I stepped into the role
of Board Chair. The Hon. Barbara Scott as President of
the Friends of Ngala has also brought her experience
and knowledge to the working of both the Board and
the Friends of Ngala. I thank all members of the Board,
Committees, Friends of Ngala, the Staff and Volunteers for
their commitment over the last two years.
After 23 years at the helm of Ngala as CEO, Rae Walter
announced her retirement to be effective in November
2011. Rae has guided Ngala since November 1988 and
has overseen major changes in the focus of the services,
planning and building of new premises, moving services
into the community, the growth of evidence-based practice
and the move to new technologies including web-based
service delivery. Rae will be remembered for her leadership
as well as her zealous representation of Ngala and the
needs of families with babies and young children.
On behalf of the Board of Directors I welcome the newly
appointed CEO Mr Ashley Reid who will commence duties
in October 2011 and look forward to working with him in
taking Ngala forward.
In 2011-12 as we move forward into the next stage in
the life of this successful and resilient organisation,
our challenges include continued work on increasing
sponsorship particularly for refurbishment of Kensington
premises to provide a base for the continued delivery of
our intensive services and for continued innovation and
development across the state. We look forward to the
support of the business and wider community of Western
Australia as we seek contributions to a capital fund for
these purposes.
Eric Kinsella, Chairperson
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
8
Friends of Ngala ExecutivePresident
Hon. Barbara Scott
Vice Presidents
Jill Curnow and Alice O’Donnell
Committee Members
Marguerita Pawle
Yvonne Sambell
Leone Scott
Ellie Steinhardt
Althaea McTaggart
Elizabeth Mair
Jacqui MacKinnon
Heather Gilmour
In 2010 we celebrated Ngala’s 120th year working for
children and families in Western Australia with a busy year
for Friends of Ngala who marked the celebrations with
numerous successful fundraising events.
In May, Friends of Ngala and Dalkeith Rotary Club
co-hosted a lunch at Sittella Winery which featured
guests speaker Dawson Cooke who spoke about Ngala’s
Hey Dad WA program. The event raised $6500 and special
thanks go to members who contributed to the success of
the event and to Craig Rosendorff for the donation of a
pearl necklace.
The Gala Dinner at the Government House Ballroom on 20th August was a highlight for the year. Professor Fiona Stanley AC, Australian of the Year 2003, was our guest speaker and we were privileged to have our Patron, Mrs Julie Michael and the Governor, His Excellency Dr Ken Michael AC attending.
Special thanks must go to the committee members and a number of generous donors for great raffle and auction prizes that resulted in the evening raising in excess of $50,000. One of the evening’s highlights was the film produced by well known film maker, Ross Tinney of RT Films. This film is about how Ngala is working with families to meet the challenges faced by today’s parents. The film, a gift to Ngala, is being shown to potential sponsors to boost support for Ngala’s programs and raise the profile of Ngala in our community. Our appreciation is extended to Alice O’Donnell for co-coordinating this project and to Jill Curnow and Ngala staff for preparing the brief and script.
Governors wife Julie Micheal and Fiona Stanley guest speaker at gala dinner
Members can be very proud
that 2010 concluded with a
surplus of $81,359
Presentation by Beryl Grant Government House ballroom
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
9
Our final fundraiser for 2010 was the movie ‘Eat Pray Love’
held at the Windsor Cinema in October. It was great to see
such a varied age group of supporters of Ngala enjoying
the night including some of our new ‘Friends’ members
helping to raise $3,000.
Members can be very proud that 2010 concluded with a surplus of $81,359. In partnership with the CEO, we identified a priority list of appropriate projects for the Friends to support.
A special painting by Herbert William Gibbs (1852 – 1940) titled ‘Old Mill South Perth’ was generously donated by Beryl Grant. Curator of the May and Herbert Gibbs South Perth Collection, Joy Legge has valued the work at $3,250. It has been reframed and hung with its story in Ngala’s boardroom.
Later in 2010, the Friends of Ngala farewelled Mrs Julie Michael who had been our wonderful Patron for four years. We felt very privileged to have been associated with Julie over the period that her husband, Dr Ken Michael AC, served as Governor of Western Australia. A farewell lunch provided members of the Committee with a very personal opportunity to say thank you to Julie. At that lunch, Julie very generously donated all the toys she had gathered at Government House for her grandchildren. They are now being enjoyed by children visiting Ngala.
Premier Colin Barnett very kindly hosted a lunch in February 2011, at Parliament House for the highest bidder of his prize auctioned at the Gala Dinner. Graham and Kath Hardie, Simon and Billie Hadfield and I all enjoyed a stimulating informal chat with the Premier.
In June 2011 the Friends of Ngala hosted a luncheon at the Royal Perth Yacht Club. The capacity audience included seven times World Marathon Swimming Champion Shelley Taylor-Smith as guest speaker, former Wimbledon champion, Margaret Court AC MBE and her husband Barry Court AO and a bunch of our staunch supporters including Ministers Hon Robyn McSweeney, Hon Helen Morton, Hon David Johnston and Hon Donna Faragher and other State members of Parliament and special guests.
Shelley Taylor-Smith gave an inspirational speech about achieving a personal ‘champion mindset’ against huge setbacks. She very cleverly and poignantly linked the importance of empowering parents to achieve their own goals in the ever challenging role of parenting and Ngala’s role in supporting parents. Shelley not only donated her time but also very generously donated part of the proceeds of her book sales on the day of her biography ‘Dangerous When Wet’ to Ngala.
Successful fundraising by the Friends of Ngala over the past two years has enabled us to allocate the funds to Ngala for some important new projects including set up costs for the the Registered Training Organisation, and funds to assist in development of services in Armadale in conjunction with the new Child Advocacy Centre. We have also been able to support the continuation of Tuned in Parenting groups as well as bedding and garden improvements for the overnight stay service area.
Last year we acknowledged the special contributions of past President Jacqui McKinnon and life member Leone Scott in our newsletter. Leonie’s knitted dolls have given enjoyment and fun to many and also contributed significantly to fundraising. I congratulate and thank all the Friends involved in events who together with the extra ordinary efforts of our Liaison Officer, Kris Bailey, have enabled us to achieve these results over the last two years. We will finish the 2010-11 year with a celebration of Beryl Grant’s 90th birthday and a farewell to our long-serving CEO, Rae Walter.
I thank you for the opportunity to be involved in an
organisation that is pre-eminent in its provision of parenting
services to WA families. In discussions with the Board and
the CEO, we hope to carve out some new opportunities for
the Friends to be involved in this valuable work.
As Friends of Ngala representative on the Ngala Board I have found this period to be stimulating and challenging.
Hon. Barbara Scott
President
I thank you for the
opportunity to be involved
in an organisation that is pre-
eminent in its provision of parenting
services to WA families. In discussions
with the Board and the CEO, we
hope to carve out some new
opportunities for the Friends
to be involved in this
valuable work.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
10
Family Services
Day and Overnight Stays provided in Ngala’s
Kensington hospital facility continue to provide
Western Australian parents from across the
state access to an interdisciplinary team of
experienced staff to assist with a range of
parenting concerns. They often include sleep
and settling, feeding and nutrition, as well as
opportunities to explore issues of adjustment
to parenting, anxiety and symptoms of post
natal depression.
Day Stay Day Stays are often the first opportunity for parents of
young children, mostly under 9 months old to spend a
period focussing on how they manage the important
task of parenting. Funding from the Department for
Communities assists in offering subsidies to those unable
to cover the full fee for service. Many families report that
their day with Ngala has been a “lifesaver” and that the
modelling and education, counselling and skills practice
available during the day has set them on the path to
confident parenting.
Overnight Stay Overnight Stay continues to be the only program of
its kind in Western Australia where families have the
opportunity to participate in a more intensive 24-hour
service usually for 4 days. Around 250 families per year
requiring more support and further assessment of their
parenting and personal needs, utilise this program. In
many cases they are referred into this program through
another Ngala service. Since late 2010 The Department
for Child Protection has provided funding in recognition of
the program’s key role in child protection and work with
vulnerable families.
Tuned in Parenting (TIP) Funding support from Curtin University and the Royal Perth
Golf Club have over the last two years enabled Ngala to
continue providing TIP for parents who are experiencing
difficulties in their relationship with their children. This
is a nine week video – based therapeutic group to assist
parents to “tune” into their children’s needs. Dr Lynn
Priddis continues to provide expertise to train and support
staff in enhancing parents reflective functioning.
Counselling by a psychologist is available to family’s
accessing any of Ngala’s family services.
Supporting Children After Separation Program (SCASP)In partnership with AnglicareWA and their SCASP
(Supporting Children After Separation Program) Ngala
provided groups for families of children less than 5 years
of age. The Growing Together Program aims to enhance
child and parent attachment and assists parents in
maintaining healthy stable and secure relationships with
their children.
Coming to Ngala was a
huge decision and emotionally
I was at breaking point. Ngala
staff made us feel instantly
welcomed. The week was an
emotional roller coaster, but
I am leaving feeling confident
and fantastic as a mum and
as a family.
© Jennifer Gherardi
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
11
Ngala Family Services in Summary
Day Stay – full day parenting program
Supported by Department for Communities
2155 Day Stays
2640 Parents
1940 Children 92% under 1 year of age
and 68% are the first child in the family.
Overnight Stay intensive parenting program
Supported by Departments for Communities and
Child Protection
503 families
580 children
585 parents
70% experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression
TIP – Tuned in Parenting
Supported by Healthway, Curtin University and
Friends of Ngala
30 parents and their children in 6 groups
Supporting Children After Separation Program
Funded by FaHCSIA in partnership with AnglicareWA
15 families participated in “Growing Together” individual
or group sessions
Family Counselling Service 97 consultations
121 parents
© Jennifer Gherardi
“ I’m settled in myself and I think I’m more settled with her too; it’s
just all come together. I don’t know whether it’s me but a lot of
the program has made me think, stop and think.”
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
12
Ngala Community Services
Ngala Community Services delivers a high
quality, responsive Helpline for families with
babies and young children who live in Western
Australia. In 2011 the Ngala Helpline has been
operating for nearly 20 years in its current
service format. For the West Australian
community, the Ngala Helpline service remains
a popular resource point for parents, carers
and professionals seeking early parenting
support, information and referral.
HelplineThe Ngala Helpline works in close cooperation with
Parenting WA, the WA Child and Adolescent Community
Health Service as well as the Department for
Child Protection.
The Helpline is represented at the Parent Help Lines
Australia and New Zealand (PHLANZ) regular meetings
where a collaboration of similar organisations discuss new
technologies, service trends and service development.
Ngala Helpline partnered with Parenting WA and Crisis
Care to host a very successful PHLANZ Symposium held
at Ngala in September 2010.
Parenting Consultations Ngala continues to provide Parenting Consultations of
between 45 and 90 minutes duration designed to provide
an early intervention and a quick response for parents
seeking individualised support and information for their
parenting concerns.
Consultations are provided at Kensington, Rockingham
and Noranda centres or by telephone and more recently
webcam for those unable to visit a centre. Families are
provided with telephone follow up and onward referral.
Families receive an average of 1.8 calls to assist with
adjusting their careplan or providing reassurance and
recommendations on community-based support.
Efforts have been made to expand and develop this
service as a cost effective alternative to day stay
service. Department for Communities support assists
in providing subsidies for those unable to afford the full
cost of service.
…the Ngala Helpline service remains a
popular resource point for parents, carers and professionals seeking
early parenting support, information and
referral.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
13
Woodside “Nurturing the Pilbara”2011 marks the 4th year of a successful partnership
with Woodside on “Nurturing the Pilbara” project.
This partnership demonstrates Woodside’s commitment
to investing in the social fabric of the Pilbara to make it a
place that families love to live and work in. Over the last
decade development in the Pilbara has been phenomenal
and much of this population growth is from the high influx
of young families or their parents who are flying in and out
for work.
The “Nurturing the Pilbara” project has enabled Ngala
to have a more responsive and proactive presence in
remote and rural communities in the Pilbara. Ngala has
utilised a community development approach to engaging
with the communities in Karratha and surrounds to work
in partnership with local organisations and groups and to
“add value” to local services and activities. Regular visits
with a Ngala team of staff have provided parenting and
professional education sessions, information and short
helpline style consultations in many venues in Karratha
and surrounds. They have also engaged with the broader
community at regular family events such as play days and
FeNaCling festivals.
Evaluation and feedback on the project from families,
community organisations and professionals have been
positive in regard to both the expertise provided and the
way of work.
“Ngala is fantastic and each presenter
has been approachable and real in relation to the challenges that are faced when you have
children.”
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
14
Ngala Parenting and Play Time (P&PT)
Parenting and Play Time parent and child group sessions
(formerly known as Coffee Mornings) are offered in five
locations north and south of Perth. This program is a
Ngala’s shop front in these communities and offers
parents a flexible, safe and facilitated environment to
access parenting expertise. The program aims to:
• Provide learning opportunities related to pregnancy,
family formation and early parenting;
• Promote important messages about the early years and
how children develop and grow;
• Promote confidence, competence and a sense of well
being for families in managing the normal challenges
of parenting babies and young children;
• Assist parents to learn from other parents, and
to develop support and friendship networks in
the community; and
• Provide information and linkage to other community
resources such as playgroups, parenting groups,
mental health and other counselling services.
Sessions vary according to needs of each community and
the parents attending, all are facilitated by three staff with a
range of skills in child health, child development and family
support. A playful environment is provided in which both
parent and child are able to learn. Parenting and Play is
supported by the Department for Communities in Merriwa,
Noranda and Rockingham and by Communities for Children
through the Smith Family as part of Ngala’s Mirrabooka and
Kwinana projects.
What Ngala Means to MeNgala Coffee Morning became my weekly sanity, it was
the first time in many months that I felt positive about
being a mother. Staff offered expert advice without
judgement, and each week I left feeling more and
more confident. The philosophy of acceptance that
the leaders practise filters to the mothers who attend
the group and there is genuine care amongst us. My
daughter loves the group, she wanders confidently
around exploring her environment, interacting with her
friends and learning new things every week.
Parenting and Play Time provide frontline referral and
support for families with issues related to parents
working away (eg. FIFO or Defence force assignment),
parents experiencing post natal depression, issues of
child protection and family separation and children with
disabilities or medical concerns. Parenting and Play Time is
regularly utilised by fathers, grandparents and other carers
of children. Activities are broad ranging and have included:
• Making healthy food options;
• Road and sun safety;
• Encouraging children in language skills through stories,
reading and interaction;
• Modelling options for managing challenging
behaviour; and
• Mini education sessions on local services or parenting
issues such as sleep and toileting.
Ngala is a place that helps mums
and bubs to build and grow,
bond and connect. It is also a place
where you can LEARN to parent and to
DISCOVER what being a mum is all about.
The workers there have helped me through
problems big and small, they have been
my shining light through the dark times
and walked with me through the
good times. This is why I am
thankful for Ngala.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
15
A CaLD mother who has attended Ngala’s Parenting
and Playtime as part of the communities for children
project in Mirrabooka for 8 weeks has observed how
comfortable her 10 month old daughter has been in
moving away from her, exploring, interacting with other
children and adults and joining in (babbling) with singing
or reading. She said “she is not like this anywhere
else”. When asked why she thought this might be, she
responded, “we both feel safe here”. This mother also
mentioned that she was feeling isolated and did not mix
with people outside her culture in other places.
Mirrabooka and KwinanaNgala has continued a positive partnership with The Smith
Family who funds the Ngala at Kwinana and Ngala in
Mirrabooka projects as part of the Australian Government
Communities for Children Initiative. Both projects include
Parenting and Play Time sessions as primary connections
points and involve extensive partnerships with other early
years agencies built up over 3 to 4 years to promote early
years information and to provide value adding activities
to existing services such as play groups, child care and
school activities.
In Kwinana a focus on antenatal education and
intervention involves Ngala nursing staff visiting a local
medical centre to provide individual consultations and
support for parents with conversations focusing on
pregnancy, sleep and feeding concerns, brain development
and changes in family roles. The GP Obstetrician makes
specific referrals to Ngala staff which enables Ngala to
access ‘hard to reach’ parents. This innovative project
has been very successful with positive feedback from
the medical centre staff, as well as excellent comments
from parents.
In Mirrabooka Literacy Links the early literacy initiative
has distributed 968 book packs in the last 12 months
and trained 27 professionals in the Let’s Read Program.
Many parents report that they have been told, sometimes
by teachers, that parents should not speak or read to
their children in their mother tongue as this may weaken
children’s literacy abilities in English.
Parents were reassured in ‘Lets Read’ sessions that
research points to the contrary; that reading with their
children, telling them stories and chatting with them in
their first language does develop their vocabulary. Their
children would enter school ready to transfer these skills
to learning English and succeed educationally.
At the end of a Literacy Links session, an African father of 5 approached the facilitator with tears in his eyes. He spoke
about how not speaking with his children in his own language made him feel that he was discarding loyalty to his home
and culture. It was important to him that his children grow to love and take pride in his mother tongue. He went on to tell
his favourite story as a boy – when famine hit the African animals the only thing that could save them was to reach an
enchanted tree in a very distant and secluded place and ask the tree for the magic word that would end the famine; the
strongest animals tried and failed but the weak and slow tortoise made it and saved the animal kingdom. With a grin on his
face he announced that he would tell his children the story that evening after dinner and teach his 3 year old all the animal
names in his own language.
© Robert Castiglione
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
16
Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY)Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters
(HIPPY), commenced in Western Australia in April
2009. Ngala is licensed and funded by the Brotherhood
of St Laurance to implement HIPPY in Rockingham
and Girrawheen.
HIPPY programs have been highly successful in both sites
where local parents with children 3.5 to 5.5 years are
employed as tutors to visit families like their own. During
these visits they demonstrate and encourage parents to
do regular interactive play activities with their child that
encourage early literacy and prepare children for formal
learning. Some tutors have moved on with skills developed
in the program to other employment and activities.
The coordinator and tutors in Girrawheen talk about both
the joys and challenges of working with CaLD families,
and in particular, working with CaLD and Australian born
families together. Cultural issues, language difficulties
and the feelings of discomfort that people may have in
a very diverse group are evident at tutor training and in
parent groups.
Extra time is made available to ensure all communication
is clear, and that families have the opportunity to really
be heard and to give feedback. They have also modified
the way services are delivered and are well rewarded with
families saying that one of the things they appreciate most
about HIPPY is mixing with, and getting to know people
from very different backgrounds.
Hey Dad WAOne of the highlights of Ngala’s 120th year was the launch of edition three of the very successful Hey Dad, Fatherhood – First 12 Months booklet, which was produced in collaboration with beyondblue. The booklet now containing some additional important messages on perinatal mental health also provides a useful contact card for dads. It is available free Australia wide with 200,000 copies being distributed in the first year.
Hey Dad WA, continues to promote the important role of fathers in the development and parenting of children. As well as continuing important work with antenatal fathers at King Edward and Osborne Park Hospitals, providing training to Ngala staff and WA professionals, the Hey Dad WA team offer Skilled Dads workshops, contribute to current research, respond to media topics and assist in the development and delivery of parenting education.
Changing Nappies Changing LivesA successful pilot of Changing Nappies Changing Lives, a group for couples experiencing difficulties in adjustment to parenting or symptoms of post natal depression was funded with a grant from the State Perinatal Mental Health Initiative. Results of the pilot were evaluated with results indicating that at the four-week follow-up after the group there was an increase in parenting confidence for all participants, this being most notable for mothers. There was also decrease in depression ratings across those who had attended, particularly for the fathers. Satisfaction ratings for different elements of the workshop were moderate to high. This piloted workshop may provide an effective model for future community efforts to meet the needs of parents as they adjust to parenting in the first year.
One mother who had struggled in parenting her four
year old twin boys reported her boys saying to her:
“Mum, can we turn off the tv so you can read us a
story.” Her confidence in her parenting has increased,
and she notices more often the positive changes in
her boys’ behaviour.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
17
Parenting WorkshopsParent Workshops have continued to be a growth area at
Ngala with the staffing, curriculum and range of groups
accessing workshops in the community all expanding. In the
2009 to 2011 period, sessions have been held in many
parts of Perth where our workshops have not previously
been delivered and each year we visit many country towns at
the request of local organisations and individuals.
Many of the workshop curriculums have been adapted
to focus on early brain development with connections to
sleep literacy development, nutrition and attachment and
relationships. Parents have been enthusiastic about the
Building Brains messages, which are presented in a very
logical and concrete way. Indigenous families across the
state have found this approach helpful. Building Brains has
been provided in many settings; for hostel staff, for foster
parents and for parents and carers in country towns.
A special project “Connecting Early Brain Development
Research to Parenting, Pedagogy and programs for Early
Literacy Learning” was funded by a Western Australian
Schools innovation grant which involved six schools,
Ngala and Edith Cowan University. ECU provided tools
for teachers to critically examine reading instructions.
Ngala provided six educations workshops to families that
encompassed brain development.
“Managing a Baby and Toddler” one of the new curriculum
has been a resounding success. There are many reasons
why Ngala does parent education sessions like this one?
For the most part, parents in the 21st century have more
information about children and parenting than ever before
so it is not because we think parents don’t know about
parenting and children, in fact many parents describe
feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information available.
Information and research is often about mothering rather
than parenting, at Ngala we see the role of both parents as
equally important. Ideas about how to use what you know to
explore possible solutions are less available. It is interesting
to know that literature related to managing a baby and a
toddler is sparse yet we know it is a challenge for many
parents. “Understanding and Guiding Children’s Behaviour”
is another of the workshops in high demand.
Ngala’s two-hour workshops are offered for fathers and
mothers, grandparents and carers of babies and children
to five years. Workshops usually catering for about 8 to 16
parents are packed with exciting up to date information
and ideas as well as opportunities for discussion and
questions. Often workshops are tailored to the particular
needs of a group. Ngala partners with many community
organisations including aboriginal organisations,
playgroups, teen parents through TAFE, youth services,
teenage parenting groups as well as primary schools
and preschools.
Offering education in community venues has included
about seven workshops and question and answer
sessions over the last year at shopping centres including
Belmont and Cockburn. Workshops have also been offered
through university extension for the first time as well as by
video-conference.
Professional Development Professional Development has also continued to expand
with workshops offered several times per year on brain
development, engaging fathers in the early years,
sleep and nutrition with the latter two focussing on the
translation of theory into practice. Practitioners including
GPs, occupational therapists, family support workers,
community health practitioners and many others attend.
Tailored sessions have been provided to:
• Preschool and primary teachers as part of the
Western Australian Schools literacy project;
• Groups of early childhood educators and child
care workers;
• Family Relationship Services in Joondalup and
Mandurah as part of our contribution to the Anglicare
WA consortium who operate these services;
• Trainee Child Health Nurses at Curtin University;
• Crisis Care staff Department for Child Protection;
• State-wide Aboriginal Child Health Project;
• Child Health Conference on transition to school; and
• St John of God Midwifery Conference on Brain
Development and Breastfeeding.
Other topics for tailored sessions included attachment,
play and development, guiding children’s behaviour and
building brains.
Found Ngala staff come
from experience not just
textbook. Fabulous thank you.
It inspired me to keep working
hard to provide my children with
nutritious food. Lots of great
practical ideas, The workshop
could of been a whole day and
I did not feel alone as
a parent.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
18
ExposToddlerfest at SciTech, a two-week extravaganza of fun
and learning for children provides an ideal opportunity for
Ngala to promote Road Aware and safety messages as
part of the SDERA Smart Steps Program. The use of car
seats, passenger safety, safe pedestrian practices and
secure places for play at home and in public places are
key messages at this event. These messages are also
promoted during Ngala parenting education workshops and
other shopping centre and community events.
Ngala’s other key opportunity to present early years
messages and to promote helpful services is the annual
Pregnancy, Babies and Children’s Expos where many
expectant and new parents make their first connection
with Ngala and often seek out Ngala for information and to
pose their parenting questions.
Ngala In The RegionsNgala In The Regions Ngala services extend across
Western Australia. Over 16 % of Helpline calls come from
outside the metropolitan area, and our parenting education
team respond to requests for visits from the Kimberley
to the Great Southern and Goldfields. Many families from
remote areas spend a day or more in Ngala’s Family Day
Stay or Overnight Stays and of course information is
available online.
Ngala commenced a regular ABC radio segment on parenting in the Kimberly based on frequently asked parenting questions. In the near future similar sessions will be offered in the Gascoyne/Midwest.
A report on the 2009 visits sponsored and supported by the Exmouth Early Years Action Group and funded by Chevron outlined the achievements and challenges of the project. Over 290 people benefited from 30 parent and professional education workshops, individual consultations sessions and telephone and email support generally providing very positive feedback. Activities during visits were guided by varied needs highlighted in work with parents, as well as workers and volunteers in health, education, playgroup and toy library, and child care. Focussing on achieving improved outcomes for the children of Exmouth and helping families meet their individual and community challenges was rewarding.
Royalties for Regions funding was received from five Regional Development Commissions – Pilbara, Kimberley, Gascoyne, Mid-West and Peel – during 2009/2010. These funds were used to provide a parent support program throughout those regions during 2010 and 2011. Ngala parenting resources such as tip sheets, books and promotional materials were sent to participating Community Resource Centres (CRCs) and Child Health Nurses throughout these regions. Webcams were provided to some CRCs to allow “face to face” consultations and some vouchers for free consultations were offered to parents in these rural and remote areas.
Izzy at Toddlerfest Parenting Education Team at Exmouth
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
19
A further Royalties for Regions regional grant has been
made to Ngala by the Wheatbelt Development Commission
from April 2011 for one year. The project will provide
education to parents and professionals on the importance
of the development of children in their early years.
Ngala staff will work in partnership predominantly with
three CRCs identified by the Commission; Koorda, Jurien
and Corrigin, to develop and trial a model of visits and web
based parenting education which may then be extended to
other CRC’s interested in working with Ngala.
MyTimeThe MyTime program is a partnership with the Parenting Research Centre with Ngala as lead coalition agency in
Western Australia providing financial and service support to
28 facilitated peer support groups for parents of children
with disabilities throughout Western Australia. Any full time
carer of a child up to the age of 16 with a disability, high/
complex needs or autism is eligible to join a MyTime group.
Ngala has been coordinating the MyTime program for
four years. In the past quarter MyTime groups supported
281 West Australian families with groups situated all
over the Perth metropolitan area as well as in eleven
locations throughout rural Western Australia, from as far
north as Kununurra to as far south as Albany. Groups are
operated by around 15 established community service
organisations, schools and community centres employing a
diverse range of professional facilitators.
The program has also been scoped to address Indigenous
families managing children with disabilities, and seven
Indigenous focused groups are currently operating under
the MyTime banner. These groups provide support to up to
75 indigenous families, not including indigenous members
of regular MyTime groups. Ngala provides training and
support to all groups with one of the 2010 highlights
being a forum facilitated to share ideas, hear more
about MyTime, and learn new skills particularly in-group
facilitation. Assistance with promotion and marketing has
helped groups to increase attendance over the last year.
Planning is now underway for the implementation of some
additional MyTime groups for grandparents, recognising
the important role of full time grandparent carers.
MyTime Training Day
Parenting workshop at Corrigin
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
20
The Indigenous Parenting and Children’s ProgramThe Indigenous Parenting and Children’s Program has
provided regular Parenting, Play and Yarning times for
families at Middle Swan School Stratton, Moorditj Noongar
Community College Midland and Neerabup Primary School.
Sessions have focussed on learning through play with
the aim of preparing young children for kindergarten
and preschool. Parents and carers as well as the Ngala
Indigenous team are seeing the benefits of the children
attending the program, helping them integrate into
Kindergarten smoothly. The team have been pleased with
reports that children from the program are more advanced
than children who have not attended the program. After
three years the Ngala indigenous team can see the
positive development of children as they pass through the
program as well as the birth of new babies who will also
grow up with access to play and learning in the program.
The programming of guest speakers, learning about
nutrition, undertaking cooking activities, talking about how
children develop, yarning about being parents, sharing
experiences and building positive relationships is a key
part of group sessions. Staff also support parents with
a variety of issues, including debt and budgeting, health,
schooling and housing, passing on information, coaching
and referral to helpful local services.
As part of building stronger connections with local service
providers, in 2011 the indigenous team have been working
with Centrelink and attending each Monday to talk with
parents and provide simple activities for children while
they wait at the centre. Helping families understand and
connect with local agencies and promoting Ngala services
is an important part of the work with families.
NAIDOC Week (once National Aborigines and Islanders
Day Observance Committee’) celebrations have been a
special part of Ngala’s indigenous programs with the team
promoting parenting and early childhood programs, making
connections with many families in the community and
bringing NAIDOC to Ngala. In early July 2011 Ngala staff
were treated to the Madjitil Moorna choir to share their
special form of reconciliation.
© Robert Castiglione
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
21
Bandyup Women’s PrisonNgala operate the Parenting Advice and Support Service (PASS) working to advocate and support women and their
children in the Bandyup Women’s Prison.
An early childhood play and learning program is offered
on a daily basis to the women residing in the nursery
area of the prison with their babies. One of Ngala’s child
health nurses visits the nursery once a month to provide
parenting advice and to attend to issues raised by parents
and workers. Ngala has also worked in partnership with
Rangeview Detention Centre for juveniles with young
women due to give birth.
A parenting program was offered three times each year
at Bandyup. The program Stop, Think, Do was developed
in consultation with the women and was also named
by them to link with other rehabilitation programs. The
parenting program is made available to all women in the
prison and the program includes eight sessions over four
weeks including:
• Building Trust with Children including Protective
behaviours and circle of security;
• The Traffic Lights of Parenting (Stop, Think, Do)
including child abuse, domestic violence, and drug and
alcohol issues;
• The Environment Surrounding your Child including the
impact of environmental factors such as alcohol and
drug abuse, and nutrition;
• Children’s Play including creating safe play spaces and
How to play and communicate with your child.
The Ngala Bandyup team works in partnership with Outcare
to create a play based interactive environments for
children’s visit held twice weekly at Bandyup. The purpose
is to create an environment whereby the mother and her
child can connect and interact in a way that strengthens
the relationship between parent and child.
Ngala program at Bandyup was nominated as a finalist for
the Premier’s Award in 2010.
An early childhood play and
learning program is offered on a daily basis to the women residing in the nursery area of the prison with their
babies.
© Jennifer Gherardi
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
22
Ngala Community Services in Summary
Helpline
8:00am to 8:00pm 7 days per week,
Online forums and email requests for information also
serviced by the interdisciplinary team
Funded by Department for Communities and WA
Department of Health
Average call length 15 mins
Average response time 75 minutes
Approximately 20,000 calls per year
32% of callers are first time callers.
67% call with sleep and settling issues
55% report issues related to adjustment to parenting.
Consultations
45 to 90 min
Provided at Ngala sites, by phone and webcam
Supported by Department for Communities
2009-11
728 Centre Consultations
225 by Telephone
5 Web consults
21 Home Visits
1399 Parents
976 children 64% are the first child in the family
Parent Education
Supported by Department for Communities and various
corporate and community organisations in rural and
remote areas
2009-11
359 Scheduled workshops
2488 Participants
243 Partnered workshops
3471 Participants
Professional Education 39 workshops
441 participants
Hey Dad WA
Funded by FaHCSIA under the Family Relationship
Service Program
Groups Participants
Skilled Dads 12 79
Antenatal 65 500
Other 71 261
MyTime
Ngala
29 groups 281 families
Indigenous Parenting and Children Programs
Funded by FaHCSIA
Over 150 parents and 160 children attended Parenting
Play and Yarning sessions in three venues
Bandyup Prison Parent Advice and Support Service
Funded by Department for Corrective Services
Case management 255
Contacts 2403
Follow up 6743
Ngala in Mirrabooka
A Communities for Children project funded by
The Smith Family
2009-2011
98 Parenting and Play Time Sessions
1064 adult attendances
1378 child attendances
2010-11 included in activities were:
51 fathers
63 young parents (<21) 49 grandparents
8 % of children aboriginal 22% of children CaLD
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
23
Ngala Community Services in Summary
Ngala at Kwinana
A Communities for Children project funded by
The Smith Family
2009-2011
177 Parenting and Play Time sessions
Average attendance 18 adults and 27 children
2010-2011
339 parenting contacts including 88 fathers and
17 grandparents at antenatal clinic
166 adults attendances at antenatal education.
Parenting and Play Time
Supported by Department for Communities
432 Parenting and Play Time sessions
Average attendance 11 adults and 15 children
10 % new families each session
Woodside Nurturing the Pilbara’s
A partnership supported by Woodside Ltd
Worked with 37 partner organisations to deliver
99 parent and professional workshops with
918 particpants
Made contact with 710 Karratha families at
events and groups.
Parents Working Away workshops to 65 participants
HIPPY Girrawheen
And
HIPPY Rockingham
Funded by Brotherhood of St Laurance
117 families enrolled over two years
10 home tutors
80 families enrolled over two years
9 home tutors
Royalties for Regions
Funded through Regional Development Commissions
With Community Resource Centres in Kimberley, Pilbara,
Gascoyne, Mid West and Peel 2009-10
Wheatbelt commenced April 2011
Expos and Promotional events 53 events and presentations
7166 parents or community members contacted
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
24
Children’s Services
Ngala has been operating its Early Learning and Development Service (ELDS) at Kensington for over 40
years from its Kensington site (formerly known as Bluebird
Child Care Centre). The Ngala Kensington Centre has a
sound reputation and a significant waiting list of clients
waiting to enrol. For many families this centre has provided
care for up to 6 years for one or more children. Qualified
staff provide a calm, inviting and interesting environment in
which children can free play and learn, following their own
interests. Children with special needs are also integrated
in this inclusive child centred environment. Recent
playground improvements to this centre have been funded
by the Royal Perth Golf Club, and designed in consultation
with leaders in the field of playground design. A further
upgrade to the facilities is planned for 2011-12.
As a part of its longer term growth strategy, Ngala
undertook some feasibility studies to guide decisions
around an expansion to additional centres where Ngala
could demonstrate high quality care in line with their child
initiated approach and the Early Years Learning Framework.
After extensive feasibility and planning for the Early Learning and Development Service at Perth Airport, a 97
place site opened as a Ngala centre in September 2010.
At the end of June 2011 the centre was approaching
40% capacity and enrolments are growing steadily.
Ngala has appreciated the support of the West Australian
Airport Corporation in developing this service.
The friendly professional
staff have helped my family
by; supporting my visits through
the day to breastfeed my youngest
son and keeping records on sleeps and
eating through the day. My boys love
Ngala they come home satisfied and
tired after a big day of playing with
their friends and discovering
new adventures.
ELDS at Perth Airport
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
25
To achieve intended outcomes of expansion, it is essential
that ELDS’ operations reflect quality and sustainable
practice in the delivery of services. Ngala has an excellent
base of experience and expertise on which to build,
however the challenges of recruiting and development of a
quality staff group continues to be a challenge.
Important features of the implementation plan include
development of Ngala’s capacity as a training organisation,
and the application of the principles outlined in the Early
Years Learning Framework into centre practice.
Ngala Children’s Services in Summary
ELDS Kensington
54 place centre located at Kensington
Number of families per week 117
Number of children per week 170
ELDS Perth Airport
97 place centre operating at 40% capacity June 2011
Number of families per week 100
Number of children per week 198
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
26
During 2009 – 2011 scoping, development and
approval by the Board of Directors of a business case
for Ngala to be registered as a training organisation
(RTO) was undertaken. During May 2011 the Training
and Accreditation Council of WA approved the Ngala
Institute of Education and Learning as a Registered
Training Organisation (RTO) to provide nationally
recognised training.
With over 120 years of early childhood experience Ngala
has had a history in the training of Mothercraft and
Child Health Nurses, and is pleased to be returning to
its training role. Ngala has established itself as one of
the most credible and professional Parenting and Early
Learning Services in Western Australia. Programs provided
by Ngala are recognised as a leading resource for families
with babies and young children and their professional
courses are acknowledged as being ‘cutting edge’ in
education, backed by years of research and ‘hands
on’ experience.
Enrolments for CHC30708 Certificate III Children’s
Services will commence from 1st July 2011. This
qualification specialises in quality, flexible learning and
assessment options, including recognition of prior learning,
tailored to suit the needs of each individual student and
allowing participants to balance their studies with personal
and work commitments. Ngala has plans to add TAE40110
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment in 2011-12.
The Swan Alliance is an innovative partnership between
Ngala, Mission Australia and Anglicare WA. All three
organisations have equal decision making authority and
the Alliance is led by a board with representation from
each agency. The Swan Alliance has been funded by
Department of Families Housing Community Services and
Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA) until June 2014, to work with
the local community to implement Midland Communities for Children Plus (CfC Plus). This initiative is the only one
of its kind in Western Australia with seven other sites
opening across the nation.
The CfC Plus program aims to achieve positive outcomes
for the most vulnerable children up to 12 years and
their families in 11 suburbs – Bullsbrook, Ellenbrook,
Beechboro, Caversham, Kiara, Lockridge, Koongamia,
Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale and Stratton where
connection to early years services may be limited.
Ngala already had strong links in the Midland area and
working in partnership with other agencies through the
Swan Alliance was a “perfect fit,” enabling the Alliance to
draw on the strengths and experience of all organisations
to assist with planning and to guide the project in meeting
the needs of families.
Utilising a community development approach to engaging
local communities, the Midland CfC Plus team have helped
develop a community strategic plan. They have consulted
with over 40 local agencies and organisations to develop
community plans for four areas, which outline outcomes
and activities for each area. These community plans will be
implemented over the 2011 to 2014 period.
New Developments and Projects
Ngala has established itself
as one of the most credible and professional
Parenting and Early Learning Services in
Western Australia
Launching Midland CfC Plus
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
27
Building BrainsBabies brains develop after birth to almost adult size by
three years. It is the most flexible, or elastic in early life.
This brain elasticity provides both benefits and challenges.
Brain development is enhanced by positive relationships and
experiences and the brain is highly adaptable, behaviour
shapes our brain and our brain shapes our behaviour.
The challenging aspect to brain elasticity is that our brains
are vulnerable to negative experiences such as lack of
sensory stimulation, stress, neglect, and poor nutrition.
Sensory stimulation is when we experience things through
taste, touch, smell, hearing sight, and movement.
We know that babies learn most about themselves and
their world through warm, nurturing and predictable
relationships with their family. If babies receive this type
of care they are more likely to feel safe enough to be
curious, creative and self confident.
Over the past five years, Ngala’s work in translating this
important information about early brain development
into helpful parent friendly messages, “Building Brains”
has been received well by a very large number of parents
and professionals. With the support of LotteryWest, in
late 2011 Ngala will complete an audiovisual resource
for parents and professionals which is the culmination of
several years’ research and piloting of materials.
In 2010 the Australian Children’s Trust provided a grant to
Ngala to develop special resources for Indigenous families
on early brain development. This work is being undertaken
in close consultation with many other organisations,
Indigenous workers and parents.
Brain development is
enhanced by positive
relationships and experiences
and the brain is highly
adaptable, behaviour shapes
our brain and our brain
shapes our behaviour.
Newborn 3 years Adult
© Robert Castiglione
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
28
Families at WorkIn Western Australia many families have a member who
works away. These predominantly include FIFO workers (fly-
in-fly-out) and the less recognised DIDO (drive-in-drive-out)
and many families also relocate to rural and remote areas
for work. Ngala has recognised the unique opportunities
and challenges a parent working away lifestyle provides.
Over the last two years, in conjunction with the Woodside
“Nurturing the Pilbara” project Ngala has developed further
a “Families at Work” series of educational sessions.
The most popular of these “Parents Working Away” (PWA)
has been piloted and is now offered on a regular basis for
families where one family member works away.
Awareness and preparation are key pre-requisites for
all types of planning and are particularly relevant for the
planning for family life with one parent away. The PWA
workshops explore the working away experience from
the perspective of all family members. Topics discussed
include staying connected, managing the patterns of
absence and return and maintaining effective parenting.
Practical advice is offered on how to help families with
children of all ages make the most of their time together
and remain connected during times apart.
There has been increasing interest in these programs from
the resource industry where companies seek to ensure
they minimise the effects of fly-in-fly-out work practices
on families. The workshop has been provided across
Perth, in Mandurah and recently the Kellogg Gorgon joint
venture group have invited Ngala’s “Families at Work”
presenters to visit Barrow Island to present the workshops
to employees.
Secrets of Good SleepersThe development of web based resources, books and audiovisuals for parents has continued over the 2009-
2011 period with sales continuing across Australia.
Ngala’s “Secrets of Good Sleepers” was launched as a
completely revised 2nd edition. To celebrate the Ngala’s
120th year Ngala “Secrets” was also released combining
Good Sleepers and Good Eaters into one hard cover
book. Secrets of Good Eaters was also revised as part
of the “Feeding my Baby in the First Year” package
which includes a DVD produced with assistance from
the Department of Health and Ageing. Copies of this
resource were provided to all Western Australian child
health centres.
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
29
Research and Practice Development With the support of
our key research partners from Curtin School of Health
Sciences – namely Nursing and Midwifery and Psychology
as well as Edith Cowan University school of Social
Sciences the interdisciplinary framework for research
(pictured below) has been developed at Ngala. The purpose
of the research framework is to develop an interdisciplinary
research agenda for work in early parenting and early
childhood, and to build relationships with key universities
and agencies related to research in the early years.
Research staff have identified the barriers to undertaking
research and a number of strategies have been developed
to encourage staff participation in practice development
and research activities.
Joint research activities have led to a number of journal
articles being published and a research plan and priorities
developed over the next three years. For details on
research plans and recent publications see www.ngala.
com.au/For-Professionals/Research
Several research projects are currently underway, these
include an investigation into the impact of using C-Frame,
a way of work adopted by Ngala over the past six years;
ongoing evaluation, a validation of the Tuned In Parenting
(TIP) group in conjunction with Curtin University; a Scoping
Project being undertaken in conjunction with the Telethon
Institute for Child Health Research; and an exploration of
the past, present and future of nursing in early parenting
services in Australia.
A Practice Review Group comprising Ngala staff
representatives of a broad range of disciplines has
been active in reviewing all materials developed by
Ngala including website content, tip sheets, handouts,
books scripts for audio visual and the many articles and
contributions Ngala makes to parenting publications,
magazines, and other media.
Ngala is represented or takes an active role in many
sector organisations where planning, sharing of best
practice, service development, research and advocacy
for families services and children in the early years takes
place including:
• Australian Council of Parenting and Child Health
(ACPACH)
• State Perinatal Mental Health Reference Group
• WA Private Hospital Association
• Family Services Australia
• NIFTeY – National Investment for the Early Years
• Early Childhood Australia
• Community Sector Round Table
• Secondary Hubs Working Party
• Parent Help Lines Australia and New Zealand (PHLANZ)
Over the last two years Ngala has also contributed to many
inquiries and government consultation projects including
an Inquiry into the adequacy of early years services in
Western Australia and an inquiry into improving educational
outcomes for Western Australians.
Purpose• To develop an interdisciplinary research agenda for
work in early parenting and early childhood.
• Relationship development with key Universities and Agencies related to research in the early years.
Ngala: a leading organisation for
innovation and evidence-based practice in the
early years
Early Childhood Nursing Psychology Social Work
Principles
Disciplines
ActivitiesIntegrate practice with evidence
Link with universities and agencies
Build practice frameworks
ResearchPerinatal anxiety and depressionEarly years developmentParent/child
relationship
Parent skill
development
Families in
community
context
TheoryAttachment theory & infant mental health
Brain development
Family systems
theory
Ecological
model
Social learning theory
Strengths-based practice
Cognitive Behavioural
Therapy (CBT)
Community
development
Connect & Collaborate
Develop & Change txetnoC Integrate
Developing a Framework for Research at NgalaAuthors: Banham V, Bennett E, Priddis L, Owens M, Wells G, Hauck Y, Sinclair W, Bindahneem S
For further information call Elaine Bennett on 08 9368 9368 www.ngala.com.au
Parenting with Confidence
Parenting with Confidence
Child development theory
Workforce development
Historical perspectives ofNgala’s work
research poster.V1.indd 1 23/11/10 9:44:52 AM
Research and Practice Development
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
30
Accreditation Ngala continues to maintain
certification under AS/NZS
ISO9001:2008 and the Private
Health Industry Quality and Safety
Committee (PHIQS) Private Sector
Quality Criteria with recertification
audit in August 2011. Accreditation
and licensing for Ngala’s child care and private hospital,
audits against Family Relationship Service Approval
Requirements and Australian Qualifications Framework
have led to improvements to internal audits and monitoring
of policies and procedures across the whole organisation.
Meeting the reporting and data requirements of all
services continues to be a time and resource intensive
and Ngala looks forward to the proposed streamlining and
simplifying of reporting requirements to be implemented by
state and commonwealth governments.
Developing internal planning, reporting and decision
making processes have been the focus of organisational
development and will continue into next year. The adoption
of the principles of Results Based Accountability (RBA) and
a common language in planning for services and support
functions is designed to help the organisation monitor
and report on measurable outcomes that flow from the
services and activities.
AS/NZS ISO 9001:2008quality certified
organisation
®
Developing internal
planning, reporting and
decision making processes
have been the focus of
organisational development
and will continue into
next year.
Quality & Planning
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
31
A passion for working with families, for protecting the
rights and nurturing the potential of babies and young
children, characterises Ngala staff. Ngala is fortunate to
have a multidisciplinary, highly skilled and dedicated team,
including many experienced and expert staff who have had
long careers at Ngala. Others are young, just commencing
their careers and bringing energy and new ideas to the
team. Family-friendly work practices help Ngala to recruit
and retain skills and expertise. Workforce development
and succession planning are highlighted in our current
human resource plan to ensure Ngala continues to attract
and retain the best team.
Ngala has welcomed 40 new staff including new members
of the leadership team, an increase of 27% over the two
years. Total staff numbers are 190 of which 24% are
employed full time and 51% part time and the remainder
on a casual basis. The workforce is comprised of 27%
registered nurses, 24% early childhood educators, 15%
administration and service support with the remaining
34% including social workers, psychologists, medical staff,
educators community workers, nutritionists and other
program staff.
The commitment to providing ongoing leadership and management development and training to strengthen
leadership capacity and prepare for succession
planning, has continued. The program involved 22
staff in sessions on project management, situational
leadership, managing and developing people, managing
poor performance; results based accountability, work life
balance, time management occupational health and safety,
understanding financial reporting and managing change.
A large proportion of the broader staff group have been
involved in a wide range of training including circle of
security, signs of safety, child protection, community
development, group facilitation as well as in-service
sessions, lunchtime education, early brain development,
and C-Frame. Attendance at many forums, workshops and
conferences specific to each area of practice ensures
that Ngala maintains a strong evidence base to practice
and knowledge of best practice models in the area of
parenting and child development. Continued improvement
of orientation programs for new staff is aimed at ensuring
consistency of practice and staff familiarity of the breadth
of services and varied practice in the organisation.
Ngala’s People
© Robert Castiglione
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
32
Danae Corser AwardSeveral staff over the last two years have received opportunities under the Danae Corser Award to undertake training or attend conferences. In 2008 the award was presented to Liz Houlton to undertake training in SharePoint, in 2009 Peta Anderson received the award to present a conference paper on Ngala’s TIP program and attend an infant mental health conference and in 2010 Kerryn Lewis was the recipient and her award was to be used to attend an indigenous leadership program.
Ngala is fortunate to have the ongoing support of Mrs. Corser to provide this award that recognises the contribution by staff and encourages lifelong learning among Ngala’s workforce.
Students Ngala is committed to supporting Undergraduate and Postgraduate students completing tertiary studies. Students from Curtin, Edith Cowan, Murdoch, University of WA and Notre Dame Universities and other training organisations have been represented in a cohort of over 40 students spending time at Ngala in the last two years. Student placement keeps Ngala in close connection with universities and training organisations and alert to the issues for workforce development.
The disciplines of Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Early Childhood and Medicine have all been represented with over 350 student days spent under the mentorship of Ngala’s professional staff team. Ngala provides a range of experiences for students in child care, Day and Overnight Stay services, community parenting groups, therapeutic groups, parenting education, helpline and individual consultations.
High school students seeking work experience and exposure
to work with parents and children as well as administrative
services have also contributed to Ngala’s workplace.
Several professionals and some volunteers from rural and
remote locations have participated in Ngala’s professional
development workshops and spent “placement” time
observing Ngala practice in a range of services, gaining
an understanding of how Ngala might contribute and
compliment services in their communities. Volunteers and
professionals from Exmouth participating in the Exmouth
Early Years Action Group project spoke positively of their
opportunity to spend time at Ngala.
I did enjoy my training at
Ngala. It is very informative
to learn how to resettle baby to
sleep. This seems to be No. 1 issue to
a lot of new mums, especially those
with no help from extended families
or partners. There are so much
information out there, that the
mums are really confused
about which one to
follow.
Elaine Bennett, Director Services, Education & Research with Danae Corser
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
33
Ngala has a proud history if volunteering commencing
121 years ago with a group of philanthropic women
who established the House of Mercy. Today Ngala’s
governance, fundraising, and many support tasks are
provided by a dedicated group of volunteers. We thank
them and acknowledge their important contribution.
• Members of the Board of Directors and Committees
• Friends of Ngala Executive Committee
• Friends of Ngala members
• Research Group members Yvonne Hauck, Lynn Priddis
and Linda Shields
• Anthony Vacca
• Ms. Chi Lan Vuong
• Mrs. Christine Miller
• Ms. Phoebe Crouch
• Mrs. Jill Mais
• Mrs. Anna Holmes
• Ms. Kia Pfaeffli
• Mr. Lolani Mwenda
• Mrs. Nancy Kremmer
• Ms. Carrie-Anne Garvey
• Ms. Vicki Doherty
• Ms. Denise Taylor
• Ms. Linda Locke
• Mrs Eunice Pope
• Jack Dawes
• Erica Bentel
• Nikki de Domahidy
• Jenny Sheridan
• Kim Montgomery
• Kate Pitt
• Brian Owens
• Ms. Jill Cameron
• Joy Goodfellow
• Rosemary Watkins
Volunteers
Children growing up in environments
which value them and provide safe,
loving and nurturing spaces for them
to reach their full potential
Parents being ‘tuned in’, strong,
confident and flexible, in their approach
to the change in development and
needs of their children
Communities that value the job of parenting
and by doing so ensure that
parents and families have access to and
receive the support and resources
necessary to fulfil this important task.
We imagine…
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
34
Ngala’s work in the early years spans a broad range of
settings and service models from the development of
parent and professional resources such as dvd’s and
books, to an intensive four day residential program,
from rural and remote visits in person or by video links
to Parenting and Play Time in suburban Perth. Our client
group includes women in prison, indigenous families,
vulnerable children and their families, families experiencing
mental health issues, refugee and migrant families,
fathers in antenatal classes as well as a broad range
of Western Australian families seeking information,
reassurance and education on their parenting journey.
To undertake this work Ngala relies on the support of partners who provide financial support or work in partnership to ensure services meet the needs of families. The support of all these organisations is vital for delivering timely, accessible, integrated and effective services.
Ngala’s work continues to engage the interest of many organisations and individuals. In the period we have welcomed visits from the Hon Robyn McSweeney Minister for Child Protection and Community Services to launch Ngala’s 120th year celebrations and to open the Early Learning and Development Service at Perth Airport; the Minister for Families Housing Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Hon Jenny Macklin, who visited Ngala to tour services, the WA Commissioner for Children and Young People Ms Michelle Scott, Ministers for Health and Education in Western Australia the Hon Mr Kim Hames and the Hon Dr Elizabeth Constable and Hon Donna Faragher. We thank them all for their interest and support.
Government Funding Partners• Department of Families, Housing, Community Services
and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA)
• Department Health and Aging
• WA Department of Health
• Department for Communities
• Department for Child Protection
• Department for Corrective Services
Funding Partners• Woodside
• Exmouth Early Years Action Group – Chevron
• Parenting Research Centre
• Brotherhood of St Laurance
• The Smith Family
• Regional Development Commissions in Pilbara Gascoyne Midwest Kimberly and Peel and Wheatbelt
• LotteryWest
• School Drug Education and Road Aware SDERA
Service Delivery Partners• Anglicare WA
• Mission Australia
• Beyondblue
• King Edward Memorial and Osborne Park Hospitals
• Curtin, Murdoch and Edith Cowan Universities and University of Western Australia
• Community partners in Kwinana and Mirrabooka and Karratha
• MyTime partner organisations
• Westralian Airport Corporation
Nicole Highet (beyondblue), Evyn Webster (Hey Dad WA) and Rae WalterHon. Robyn McSweeney MLC
Partnerships
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
35
Donors and Supporters Support for Ngala comes in many forms, including
individuals, groups such as workplace giving, in kind
services, discounts and sponsorship of developing or
community based services. Monies made available to
supplement government service agreements and service
income is valuable in assisting Ngala to innovate, develop
new service models, and provide for development of
staff knowledge and skills to ensure our services remain
evidence based and continue to evolve to meet needs of
today’s families. We acknowledge support from:
• Viva Photography
• Alcoa Ltd
• Harvey Fresh
• Bendigo Bank
• Peach Trust Fund (Alcoa staff giving)
• BHP (staff giving)
• The Good Guys (Merriwa Store Staff giving program)
• Royal Perth Golf Club
• Town of Victoria Park
• WA Nurses Memorial Charitable Trust
• Qantas office staff
• Lake Karrinyup Country Club
• A Weeks & N. White
• Collier Pines Ladies Golf Club Inc.
• Linc Integrated
• Ballajura Community College
• Ms Jean Hilliard and Ms Amanda Hanson
• Blue Illusion
• Broome Beach Resort
• Impress Energy
• Mr Ross Smith
• Ms Susan Marsh
• Offspring Magazine
• Rotary Club of Dalkeith
• Mr A Read
• Ms M Wojtowicz
• M and J Clark
• Allied recruitment
Steve Audino (Harvey Fresh), Leandra Sorgiovanni (Harvey Fresh), Rae Walter and Eric Kinsella
Martin Black talking to Estelle Dawes at the 120th Anniversary
Hon. Donna Faragher with supporters at the Friends of Ngala Luncheon
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
36
Technology and www.ngala.com.au have also been a key
focus. In 2009 with the generous assistance of LotteryWest,
Ngala completed a major information technology refit
and introduced an intranet to improve connection and
communication across an increasing number of locations,
programs and staff groups. The Ngala website has been
upgraded with parenting information and an online shop with
a facility for purchasing resources and booking parenting
workshops. A wide range of key documents including Ngala’s
Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Model, details of all services
activities can be found on www.ngala.com.au as well as an
expanded range tip sheets for parents.
Ngala staff utilise technology to record interactions with
families and to maintain records, collect and report data,
schedule and book services as well as the many other
essential administrative functions. Effective information
technology systems are integral to ensuring Ngala makes
the most efficient use of scarce resources, extends
productivity, reach and accessibility of early parenting
information and education. Parenting education and
support to rural and remote communities is already
utilising web based video conferencing technology.
My NgalaA website www.myngala.com.au for connecting parents
was launched with forums to bring families together
online, encourage parents to ask questions and to share
ideas. The Helpline team moderate the Ngala Forum
providing support, information and ideas for parents
wanting to overcome the challenges and share the joys
of parenting babies and young children. Ngala plans to
continue developing new ways for parents to connect with
information and interact with Ngala online and is exploring
several online options for delivery of parenting education
as well as the use of social media.
Development of Ngala’s online services over 2009 to 2011
was supported by WA Department of Health, LotteryWest
and Harvey Fresh.
Ngala is also exploring a best practice online parenting
education tool. Ngala’s CEO met with developers in Canada
and a review of materials has been undertaken with
the view to piloting the material in WA. Recent research
highlights how the new generation of parents increasingly
seek information and connection via internet and
social media.
During 2012 materials developed under a new research
and development partnership with Edith Cowan University
– Child Health Promotion Research Centre Starting
Childhood Obesity Prevention Early (SCOPE) will appear
on Ngala’s website. Materials and tools will be focussed
on engaging with parents during their pregnancy and for
the first 12 months following birth. The focus will be on
lifestyle and the importance of emotional, social and
physical health.
Technology & Online
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
37
Finances
Ngala Income Sources 2009–2010Other income 2%
Grants State Govt 42%Fees 32%
Grants Federal Govt 12%
Grants Non Govt 6%
Fundraising 1%
Sponsorships 5%Ngala Income Sources 2010–2011
Other income 3%
Grants State Govt 36%Fees 35%
Grants Federal Govt 15%Grants Non Govt 7%
Fundraising 2%
Sponsorships 3%
0
2000000
4000000
6000000
8000000
10000000
12000000
Actual 2007-2008
Actual 2008-2009
Actual 2009-2010
Actual 2010-2011
Budget 2011-2012
Total Funding 2008 through 2012
Ngala Expenses 2009 through 2011
Salary & Wages 78%Property 5%
Other income 2%
Admin & Financial 8%
Program Supplies 6%
Travel 2%
Ngala Review 2009 – 2011
Follow us on www.ngala.com.au
Ngala Kensington – Head Office
9 George St Kensington
(08) 9368 9368
Early Learning Development Service – Kensington
9 George Street, Kensington WA 6151
(08) 9368 9318
Early Learning Development Service – Perth Airport
7 George Wiencke Drive, Perth Airport WA 6104
(08) 9368 9340
Belmont Office – opened 2011
275 Abernathy Rd, Cloverdale WA
(08) 9368 9368
Community Programs and Parent Education staff are now
located in Cloverdale at the Belmont Youth and Community
Services Centre. The expansion to these premises has
relieved pressure on Ngala Kensington site, provides
space for other community organisations and two large
training rooms for education workshops and services to
local families in the future.
Ngala Rockingham
113 Read Street, Rockingham WA 6168
(08) 9368 9393
Ngala Merriwa
Community Centre, Jenolan Way, Merriwa WA 6030
(08) 9368 9354
Noranda Family Centre
Cnr Garson Court & Forder Road, Noranda WA 6062
(08) 9368 9326
Midland
31 The Crescent, Midland
(08) 9368 9311 & (08) 9368 9308