Information for LGBTIQ people needing support during the coronavirus pandemic

At VincentCare, we understand the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may affect LGBTIQ+ people in a number of different ways. We are a Rainbow Tick accredited organisation and we are still providing a full range of services during the pandemic. This includes help with crisis or refuge accommodation, alcohol or other drug issues, food, toiletries and other material aid. We can also provide information and referrals to other services.

Accommodation and housing support

If you need accommodation or support contact 1800 825 955 or visit our services page for a full list of available services.

We can support you with:

• Finding crisis accommodation
• Working towards sustainable housing
• Referral to other LGBTIQ+ friendly services
• Information about additional supports or peer groups
• Addressing mental health, alcohol or other drug issues, general health or family violence.

Because of COVID-19, we are delivering our services differently in order to ensure the safety of our clients, staff, and volunteers. We also have to follow the Federal and Victorian Government’s guidelines for screening for flu and COVID-19 symptoms, while practicing social distancing.

Our service at Glenroy will often be the first point of connection with VincentCare

Staff are available on-site at our Glenroy location (175 Glenroy Road) to help people in Melbourne’s North West Metropolitan region who need to access services, because they are homeless, disadvantaged or at risk of becoming homeless.

Please call before coming in on (03) 9304 0100 and we’ll try to provide help over the phone. If face-to-face contact is needed, we will complete a screening prior to the meeting to make sure you and the staff stay safe.

Case management goes mobile

Clients continue to receive case management support. Most case management will be done over the phone.

Homelessness Resource Centre (HRC)

The HRC is providing takeaway meals, coffee and some material aid from its window on Flemington Road, North Melbourne, from 10am-1pm, Monday to Friday.

Women’s refuges remain open

Our two refuges for women and children, Olive’s Place and Marian Community, remain open. Residents are supported both on-site and via telephone contact. Referrals through Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 will continue if you need somewhere safe to go.

Referrals to accommodation

Referrals for assistance and accommodation are still part of the services we offer during the COVID-19 outbreak.

If you are connected with a service and need VincentCare – you can call us direct on (03) 9304 0100 or the service provider you are connected with can call on your behalf.

Other organisations still open

Most LGBTIQ+ service organisations are still operating during the pandemic, including Thorne Harbour Health, Drummond Street and Switchboard. 

WithRespect has launched a new ‘COVID-19 and Family Violence for LGBTIQ+ people‘ resources page. It includes information about access to key services and supports, resources and tips on safety planning.