Residential Program

Our residential program offers support and care for families who are experiencing difficulties with their infants and young children. Ten families are admitted for four nights each week.

Residential services are provided at our centre in Canterbury by clinicians and registered nurses who have extensive experience in family care.

We are committed to providing you with quality care, supporting the wellbeing of your family and meeting your individual needs during your residential stay. Please view our residential stay brochure.

What to expect during your stay

During your stay you will be supported by our team of professionals at all times. You will be responsible for all aspects of your child or children’s care. Registered nurses are on the premises at all times during your stay.

Our clinical team consists of Maternal and Child Health Nurses, midwives, mothercraft nurses, early childhood workers, a psychiatrist and a psychologist.

Our team will assist you in developing a care plan for your family’s stay. Your care plan is flexible and individual. You will receive support and counselling. You will also join in group information sessions with other clients.

There are daily information sessions on:
• Toddler behaviour
• Normal infant development
• Self care
• Sleeping and settling
• Mental wellbeing
• Other issues that are relevant to you

Play sessions and fun activities are included in the program.

Fathers are encouraged to attend the dad’s night on Wednesday evening. Click here for more information on the Residential Program's Dad's Night.

 

Admission

Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre is a registered public hospital and you will be admitted as a public patient. Families are admitted up to 4 nights each week. If any admitted member of your family is taking medication, you will be required to provide a doctor’s referral with the medications listed.

Please note that some fees are associated with nappy disposal and extra meals. Credit card facilities are not available.

 

Accommodation

Each family can use two bedrooms. Parents can choose to have their child in the same or separate room.

Bathroom facilities are shared between families and disabled facilities are available.

Breakfast is self serve, other meals are prepared fresh daily by our onsite cook.

Our centre includes:
• An outdoor play area
• Gardens
• Communal lounge and dining areas and family kitchen
• Free onsite carparking

Mercy Health O'Connell Family Centre is completely smoke free, including all buildings and grounds.

Click here for more information on what to bring to the residential program.