For generations, Tweddle Child and Family Health Service has been known as one of Victoria’s leading Early Parenting Centres (EPCs), with a respected legacy dating back to 1920 in Footscray.
Recently, Tweddle has expanded its footprint into Wyndham, testament to its commitment to serving families across the region. In addition to the new Wyndham EPC, situated near the Werribee Mercy Hospital, Tweddle’s flagship Footscray EPC is undergoing a transformative redevelopment set to open in mid-2024. Both EPCs are currently operational, extending vital support to up to twelve residential families per week.
This growth not only expands Tweddle’s capacity but also heralds a marked reduction in waiting times, currently averaging less than a fortnight.
For referrers, including health practitioners within the Northwestern Melbourne catchment, this means a more streamlined processes enabling prompt and comprehensive support for patients and clients navigating the challenges of early parenting.
For families, this means tailored early parenting support closer to home without the stress of long waiting times. Research indicates that timely support for parents correlates with improved outcomes for both infants, toddlers, and the entire family.
Liz Murdoch has recently joined Tweddle as Chief Executive Officer. With a background across a range of clinical, academic, and executive leadership positions in some of Melbourne’s tertiary hospitals, and more recently at the Victorian Department of Health in both public health and more recently as controller, Victorian Health Service operations., Liz is well positioned to lead Tweddle into the future.
“Our expansion has resulted in decreased wait times across several of our programs, including our 5-day residential program, day stay programs, and various early intervention and prevention-focused community programs,” Liz said.
At the heart of Tweddle’s approach is a multidisciplinary clinical team, comprising dedicated professionals ranging from nurses, psychologists, and social workers to family violence and early parenting practitioners.
Tweddle emphasises its accessibility, which is just a phone call or click away. The assessment and intake team can follow up on client discharge information and referrals, while an open invitation extends to the NWHPHN network to visit any of Tweddle’s sites.
For those seeking further engagement, Tweddle pamphlets or magnets can be delivered to your service waiting room or staff through the Tweddle communications manager on (03) 9689 1577.
Navigating Tweddle’s newly revamped website offers both professionals and families a user-friendly platform for referral and self-referral alike. There is also an opportunity to sign up for a quarterly stakeholder newsletter.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by Tweddle. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
