Specialised Substitute Residential Care (SSRC)

Specialised Substitute Residential Care in Newcastle

At Sunflower Services, we are proud to introduce Specialised Substitute Residential Care (SSRC) to our service offering. SSRC provides safe, high-quality residential support for children and young people who require care away from their usual home for three or more nights within a seven-day period. Our service is grounded in trauma-informed, child-centred practice and fully aligned with the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian Code of Practice and Child Safe Standards.

We are committed to providing a stable, nurturing environment where each child’s wellbeing, development, and safety are at the heart of every decision. Through structured routines, compassionate care, and strong collaboration with families, caseworkers, and multidisciplinary professionals, Sunflower Services ensures young people feel supported, respected, and empowered during their time in our care.

Understanding SSRC

What is SSRC?

Specialised Substitute Residential Care is short-term residential care for children or young people who need to stay away from their usual home for three or more nights within a seven-day period. It is regulated by the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian under the Child Safe Scheme.

Who is eligible for SSRC?

How long can a child or young person stay?

How do I make a referral?

Our SSRC Service Provides:

Our SSRC support is built on stability, safety and child-centred practice. Every placement is guided by trained professionals who focus on creating a structured, nurturing environment where young people feel supported and understood. Below is an overview of what families and caseworkers can expect from our Newcastle-based SSRC service.

Safe, supportive residential environments designed to meet the unique needs of each child or young person
Trauma-informed care delivered by trained, qualified staff
Individualised support planning in partnership with families, caseworkers, and allied professionals
Positive behaviour support and emotional regulation strategies
Clear routines, stability, and consistency to promote safety and trust
Cultural, developmental, and disability-inclusive care practices
24/7 staff presence ensuring constant safety, supervision, and wellbeing
Comprehensive reporting, communication, and collaboration with all relevant stakeholders
A strong focus on restoring stability, strengthening resilience, and supporting long-term outcomes

Who We Support

Sunflower Services provides Specialised Substitute Residential Care in Newcastle for children and young people who need a safe, structured environment away from home.

Our team delivers trauma-informed, child-centred support for short-term stays of three nights or more, working closely with families, caseworkers and professionals to ensure each placement is stable, consistent and aligned with the young person’s needs.

Children and Young People

Support for young people needing stability and safety.

Short-Term Stays

Planned or responsive care for three or more nights.

Crisis Situations

Support during sudden changes or urgent needs.

Collaborative Support

Working closely with families, caseworkers and professionals.

Make an SSRC Referral

To begin an SSRC placement, simply complete our standard referral form. Our Newcastle team will review your submission and be in touch shortly.