Children’s charity Royal Far West (RFW) is one of Australia’s most enduring and respected charities. Established 95 years ago, RFW is dedicated to connecting country kids to the developmental care they need by offering health, education and disability services at the Centre for Country Kids in Manly, as well as virtually via telecare, and in local communities. RFW supports children with a range of concerns including autism, ADHD, behavioural and conduct disorders and mental health challenges by offering speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychology as well as offering social work and oral and dental support. RFW is a developmental health service provider, a registered disability service provider, an education provider and charity therefore operates in the health, education and charity sectors.

RFW has always developed and maintained strong relationships with its stakeholders in rural and remote communities, and through the decades has consistently transformed itself to address the areas of greatest need. RFW uses a specialist paediatric workforce, technology, and its deep understanding of country communities to help improve children’s health outcomes and life trajectories. Royal Far West is a leader in the provision of allied health and medical services and a trusted partner of Government, NGO’s and community. RFW’s Windmill offers therapy to children aged 2-12 years who have mild to moderate disability, and their families. Services include Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Developmental Education, Social Work and Recreation. RFW realised the need to provide targeted therapy services for children with a disability who lived in rural and remote areas of NSW, because families consistently reported being unable to access any local therapy, so after consultation with families, the Windmill Program commenced in November 2014.

Windmill’s approach of working in partnership with families to develop integrated, high quality therapeutic solutions that meet the needs and goals of each child is proving to be very successful and highly sought-after service. The program is flexible and innovative, using technology and face-to-face sessions. RFW is responsive to family and children’s needs, and the family is supported in an open and easy manner that promotes strong partnerships and trust, using specialist knowledge and skills. RFW believes in mutual respect and promotes an inclusive environment that values everyone, not matter where they live and what services they need.

For further information on Royal Far West visit royalfarwest.org.au