Assistant Principal

At Valkstone, we believe in supporting our entire community - students, families, and carers alike. We're pleased to share information about Berry Street, a trusted organisation that provides specialised support for families experiencing domestic and family violence. 

What is Berry Street? 

Berry Street is Victoria's largest independent child and family services organisation, offering trauma-informed care and support to children, young people, and families across our state. Their services include crisis support, counselling, family violence programs, and community-based assistance designed to help families heal and thrive. 

How This Connects to Our School Community 

As part of our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, Valkstone is actively working alongside Berry Street to strengthen our trauma-informed practices. This partnership helps us better support students from our beautifully diverse cultural community, ensuring every child feels safe, understood, and ready to learn. 

Support is Available 

If you or someone you know could benefit from Berry Street's services, support is available through their comprehensive range of programs. For helpful resources, visit the Berry Street Fact Sheets. 

Getting Help 

Worried about yourself, a friend, or another family member? The following services provide help and support: 

Emergency Call 000 and speak to the police if you or someone you know is in immediate danger. 

Nationwide 24-hour services 

• 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 

Victoria-wide services 

• Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre (24-hour service): 1800 015 188 or 03 9322 3555 

• Sexual Assault Crisis Line (24-hour service): 1800 806 292 

• Men's Referral Service (24-hour service): 1800 065 973 

• Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA): go to VACCA: Family violence 

Specialist support 

• In Touch Multicultural Centre against Family Violence: 03 9482 5744 or 03 8413 6800 

• Elizabeth Morgan House Aboriginal Women's Service (Melbourne): 03 9482 5744 

• W/Respect: 1800 542 847 

• Thorne Harbour Health (for LGBTIQ+ people): 1800 134 840 

Find out more 

• Find out more about Berry Street's family violence services 

• For more information on family and domestic violence, please refer to the DHHS website 

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and our school community is here to support you in whatever way we can. If you'd like to discuss how our school can better support your family, please don't hesitate to reach out to our wellbeing team.

Together, we're building a stronger, more supportive community for everyone.