Amanda Drake has been working for Anglicare Victoria for almost seven years now and is the Intake Worker for Placement and Support Services in the East.
She is responsible for coordinating the match between the children referred to Anglicare and the appropriate foster carer. Amanda also coordinates the Family Respite Solutions Disability Program and organises respite care for families who have a child with a disability.
Did you have a moment when you suddenly realised how much of a difference you were making?
I have many moments like that as my role works directly with children and families every day. We receive referrals predominantly from DHHS, and some from the community, to place children in Foster Care.
This can range from an emergency placement, to long term, and respite care. Knowing that the children are safe and being provided the care they need makes me feel like I’m part of a community that support each other.
What do you wish other people knew about your work?
People are not aware of how much work, support and communication happens behind the scenes, how much effort goes into placing and maintaining children and families in out-of-home care (OOHC).
We have a strong network within our teams and we all work together to recruit a carer, match a child to them, maintain and support the placement, and provide the necessary support when a child leaves care.
What would you tell someone about why they should get involved with Anglicare Victoria?
We are a connected team! We are part of an incredible network who provide so much support to help make a difference for people and families, even if it’s small. Anglicare is committed and dedicated to our clients.
Working in the space that you do, what sorts of trends do you see?
I see a lot more complex referrals now. The issues that these families are having that prevent them from supporting their children in home are becoming more complex, and the children entering care have more complex behaviours and issues in their lives.
What do you do when you aren’t working?
I attend the gym seven days a week, and I enjoy spending time with my siblings and friends.
Caption: Introducing Amanda Drake (Photo credited to Leader Newspapers)
