2. ‘Time-Out’ Accommodation Program for Vietnam veterans in crisis

The Time-Out Accommodation program aims to provide short-term accommodation for up to 5-days, to veterans in crisis category group 3.  This allows time for the veteran to seek VVCS assistance to help address issues that precipitated the crisis, and reintegrate into the family and/or community.

The VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service and/or Veterans Line are the sole authorising agents for this service. 

Vietnam veterans seeking assistance through this service must be assessed for eligibility by VVCS or Veterans Line.

Eligibility requirements for ‘Time-Out’ accommodation

The veteran in crisis must:

  • be a Vietnam veteran
  • be assessed by VVCS/Veterans Line as being in crisis group 3
  • aggress to follow-up with VVCS, and
  • provide name of a contact person.

This short-term crisis accommodation does not provide the level of support necessary to safely manage people affected by alcohol or drugs.

How to access the ‘Time-Out’ Accommodation Program

If you feel that you are experiencing a crisis situation and you need help please phone the VVCS in business hours or Veterans Line after hours.

A counsellor will ask you questions that are part of the assessment process.  It is important that the counsellor knows that you are able to self-manage in the ‘time-out’ accommodation, as this type of accommodation is not suitable for people that are at risk of self-harm, at risk of harming others or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you are assessed as eligible for the ‘time-out’ accommodation you will be booked into accommodation as near as possible to where you are.  When you arrive at the hotel/motel you will need to book in the same as any other commercial client.  They will ask for proof of identity and ask you to sign the register.  Your privacy is protected as the hotel/motel staff will not know that you are being accommodated because of a crisis situation.  They are only aware that Veterans Line is paying for your accommodation and meals.  Meals are provided but in some areas this may not be possible.