Information for families and referrers
What is ABI?
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is a condition affecting people who have sustained an injury to the brain. This may be the result of a traffic, sport or work accident, a medical condition such as a brain tumour, brain bleed or stroke, excessive long-term abuse of alcohol / drugs, or any other condition which has interrupted the flow of oxygen or blood to the brain.
ABI affects all family members including the inured person, partners, parents, children, siblings, extended family members and community networks. Distress, concern and changes in relationships are common in families adjusting to the long-term effects of ABI.
The majority of people with ABI return to the care of their families. Family members face unique challenges and can often benefit from professional support that recognises the importance of relationships and the different roles and complex challenges for each person within the family.
Support for families
Families are invited to meet with a qualified family therapist experienced in ABI for support and consultation. The Team can provide information to families about ABI, how it might affect the family, and how family members can best respond to ABI.
The ABI team can also provide information and referral advice to families about other services that might be of assistance.
FAMILY TO FAMILY LINK UP
The ABI Family to Family program gives Victorian families who have a member (child or adult) with an ABI an opportunity to be linked up with each other to share their experiences and wisdoms in order to reduce isolation and increase access to information and support. Participation from families and ABI service providers will influence the development of an effective ABI Family to Family program within Victoria. If you wish to meet with another family, please contact The Bouverie Centre’s ABI Team on 9385 5100.
For further information about this program, please see the Family to Family Link Up webpages.
Who can attend?
Any family or family members who are dealing with the effects of ABI can attend. Services are free of charge for families not covered by a third party (for example, TAC or other insurance companies). Families who are eligible for compensation through a third party can also access the service but a fee will be charged to the insurance company.
Confidentiality
Matters that you talk about with any of the workers are confidential, unless someone is at risk of harm. This means that your situation will not be talked about outside The Bouverie Centre without your consent.
Complaints procedure
Concerns regarding the service you are receiving can be made to the Clinical Program Manager on 9385 5100 and / or the Disability Commissioner on 1300 728 187.
