Help is at hand

Help is at hand

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Pindari restoration house general manager Tim deVos at the house, which is now accepting applicants. Photograph – Aaron Van Rongen.

A restoration house in Bedfordale aimed at helping men recovering from addiction and other major life events is ready to take on applicants.

The house, run by Pindari Ministries, will host up to four men at a time in the Armadale Bedfordale area and provide them longer-term rehabilitation services.

Pindari restoration house general manager Tim deVos will run the house with his family and said their aim was to improve the men’s’ behaviours, relationships and circumstances.

“We also come alongside residents to identify strengths and gifts that will equip them with the behaviours, skills and attitudes to experience fullness of life,” he said.

“Pindari restoration house is more than a traditional rehab because we aim to provide support and restoration across a number of domains – physical and mental health, relationships, finances, career and more.

“The program is supported by a doctor, psychiatrist, counselors as well as a team of volunteers.”

He said those in the process of healing from addiction, trauma and hurt, homelessness, chronic anxiety and other life-limiting circumstances may be eligible.

“They participate voluntarily and must want to be helped,” he said.

“It is not for those looking for an easy way out or for those who just want a place to stay; it is for men who are absolutely serious about real change.”

Mr deVos said Armadale was in need of more places like this restoration house.

“There are not many longer-term residential restorative programs available,” he said.

“Most programs, including most drug and alcohol rehabs, generally have long waiting lists, demonstrating that there is a further need for services such as Pindari restoration house.”

During planning application stages, the house came under fire from residents concerned about safety.

Mr deVos said they addressed all of the residents’ concerns.

“We have adopted a robust application and screening process (that involves the direct input of a doctor and psychiatrist) to help us choose residents carefully,” he said.

“We also have a strict code of conduct that all residents need to abide by.

“Ultimately the type of people seeking a place at Pindari are those absolutely determined to change.

“Those that generate concern in the community are those who do not want help, those who are living next door to me and you.”

For more information email tim@pindariministries.org.au or visit www.pindariministries.org.au.