One of a kind

One of a Kind tells the story of children Darcy and Oliver, whose parents have a mental health condition, exploring complex issues in a safe, understanding, and compassionate way.

One of a Kind has been developed to support young children who live in foster or kinship care, who have a parent with a mental health condition, including children who have experienced trauma through family violence or witnessing drug and alcohol use.

The book is written and illustrated to help children better understand mental health and support conversations about their experiences.

You can view an online copy of the book below.

It is designed to be read by a foster or kinship carer or support worker, with young children.

One of a Kind tells the story of children Darcy and Oliver, whose parents have a mental health condition, as they search for answers as to why they don’t live with mum and dad. The book explores complex issues in a safe, understanding, and compassionate way.

Led by Alfred Health and Monash Health as part of the Families where a Parent has a Mental Illness program, in collaboration with OzChild, the book is authored by Linda Espie and illustrated by Gwyneth Jones.

The program is a state-wide service aiming to reduce the impact of parental mental illness on all family members.

For more information about the book, contact Alfred Health Families where a Parent has a Mental Illness program coordinator, Alice Morgan alice.morgan@alfred.org.au