Pulse
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 2026
Keep your finger on the Pulse with Health & Wellness News
“Well-Minded” Mental Health Service
A better call experience, everytime
New Exercise Physiology Groups
At DPV Health, we’re here to walk alongside you, whatever you’re going through, at a pace that feels right for you.
Our updated 1300 234 263 number now features new clearer, easier-tofollow menu options, helping you get to the support you need, sooner.
Exercise Physiology services help to keep you well, strong and active; managing chronic conditions using physical activity as a treatment.
Welcome In this Issue 1.Mental Health Support & Self Care
Hello and welcome to the Spring edition of PULSE. The past six months have been an exciting time for DPV Health as we continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people across Melbourne's north. Over the 25/26 year, we supported more than 54,700 clients, achieved 88% overall client satisfaction, expanded services into new communities, and continued to invest in innovative models of care that improve health outcomes and access to services. Recently, DPV Health was honoured to be named a finalist in the 2026 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards, Premier's Primary Health Service of the Year category, recognition of the dedication, excellence and compassion demonstrated by our people every day. Innovation and growth have remained central to our success. From showcasing digital transformation at our ICT Symposium to opening new service initiatives, strengthening primary care services and launching our second Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, DPV Health continues to evolve to meet the needs of our rapidly growing and diverse communities. These achievements are reflected not only in the numbers, but in the positive impact our clients tell us we have on their health, wellbeing and connection to community In this edition of PULSE, you'll discover stories about our dental services, exercise physiology programs, mental health supports and many other initiatives helping people live healthier lives. Thank you for being part of the DPV Health community. Wishing you happiness, health and a wonderful spring.
Don Tidbury Chief Executive Officer DPV Health
Tools Now Available 2.Immediate Children’s Dental Appointments 3.Move better with our Exercise Physiology Groups 4.What kids like about food may surprise you 5.Step into Caring program 6.The Circle of Security Program 7.How to keep your Skin Safe this Spring 8.Updated Caller Experince
Mental Health Support & SelfWELCOME Care Tools Now Available Mental Health Mental Health Support Made Easier! We’re excited to share that our Mental Health webpage has been refreshed to make it easier than ever to access information, support, and practical self-care tools. Our Well Minded approach focuses on building strengths, developing new skills, and supporting meaningful wellbeing goals through flexible, person-centred care The updated webpage now includes helpful self-care resources alongside information about our services, making it easier to find support when you need it. With options for in-person and telehealth appointments, and services available for children, young people, adults, seniors, and people with disabilities, everyone is welcome. Mental Health and Wellbeing Program Ready to Support You At DPV Health, we’re here to support you to live a full and healthy life through our Well Minded approach. At DPV Health, we’re here to walk alongside you, whatever you’re going through, at a pace that feels right for you. Our compassionate team offers flexible mental health support shaped by real community experiences.
To visit our Mental Health & Wellbeing page click here
Help Seeking Support If you, or someone you know is experiencing a mental health condition and needs help, please contact your local doctor or call DPV Health on 1300 234 263 (select option 5). Alternatively, you can contact: Lifeline on 13 11 14 Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts and is in IMMEDIATE danger, call triple zero (000).
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
Immediate Children's Dental Appointments WELCOME Available in Whittlesea! Dental Health Immediate Children's Dental Appointments Available in Whittlesea! Looking for a dental appointment for your child? Our Whittlesea Dental Clinic currently has immediate appointments available for children and young people. Eligible children with a Health Care Card or concession card can access dental treatment free of charge. Children under 13 years of age without a concession card may also be eligible to receive care, with a general co-payment of $39. Regular dental check-ups play an important role in maintaining healthy teeth and gums, preventing dental problems before they become more serious. If your child is due for a dental check-up, clean, or requires dental treatment, book an appointment today. Appointments are filling quickly and availability is limited. Give your child the best start to a healthy smile.
For more information or to book a Dental appointment call
1300 234 263 (select option 2 for Dental)
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
Move better with our Exercise Physiology Groups
Exercise Physiology Exercise Physiology services help to keep you well, strong and active; managing chronic conditions using physical activity as a treatment. We use an ‘Exercise is Medicine’ approach to help maximise your health, and to manage or prevent chronic disease. Gym Integration Group Our Gym Integration group is designed to help you safely get started with exercise, learn how to use equipment, and build strength and fitness in a supportive environment. Pulmonary Rehabilitation Our Pulmonary Rehabilitation program is designed to help you improve fitness, manage breathing, and stay active when living with a chronic respiratory condition. Strength and Balance Group Our Strength and Balance group supports you to improve stability, mobility, and independence through guided exercise in a safe, supportive setting. Cardiac Rehab Group Our Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is an 8-week, nurse and Exercise Physiologist led program designed to support your recovery after a cardiac event, diagnosis, or surgery Heart and Lungs Group A warm‑water, low‑impact exercise program supporting strength, movement and balance for people with joint pain, mobility issues or who are recovering from or awaiting surgery.
For more information, visit our Exercise Physiology page on the DPV Health website.
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
What kids like about food may suprise you WELCOME Nutrition & Dietetics Many parents understimate just how interested children are in food, cooking and meal times. Children may need to try a new food 10-15 times before they learn to like it. Repeated exposure, without pressure, can help kids become more comfortable with unfamiliar foods over time. Recent VicHealth research found that children are often more interested in being involved with food and spending time with family than parents realise. Kids Want to Help Around 9 in 10 children said they would like to help choose meals, recipes and pack their lunchboxes. Many are also interested in cooking and learning where food comes from. Giving children simple kitchen tasks can: Build confidence and independence Encourage healthy eating habits Develop practical life skills Increase willingness to try new foods
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Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
What kids like about food may suprise you WELCOME Nutrition & Dietetics Family Time Matters Perhaps even more surprising, children value family connection more than the food itself. More than half said their favourite part of family mealtimes was spending time together, while only about one-quarter said it was the food. Shared meals are a chance to talk, laugh, connect and create positive memories together. Key Message Eating is about more than nutrition. By involving children in food preparation and making mealtimes enjoyable, families can help build lifelong healthy habits and positive relationships with food. Did you know DPV Health Dietitians offer group programs for fussy feeding including food interaction practice? To read more about the survey click here
Make an appointment with our dietitics team!
1300 234 263 (select option 5)
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
WELCOME Step Into Caring A free online program for people new to their caring role Caring for a friend or family member can be rewarding, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when you are just starting out. We know that many new carers struggle to access the essential information and supports that they need to navigate complex service systems. The Step into Caring program provides new carers with easy access to tailored information, practical tips, and advice on how to care for yourself while managing the needs of others. Our goal is to help new carers feel empowered, informed and supported from the beginning of their caring role. The Step Into Caring program provided by Carers Victoria, provides practical information, guidance, and connection to help you: Understand your role as a carer Learn about available supports and services Build confidence in your caring journey Connect with other carers in a supportive space. To participate in the program, you must: Be new to caring (less than 18 months) Have a willingness to complete the online program modules within a 1-month period and attend online groups Participate in our brief pre and post evaluation to help us improve the program for others
If you are a carer in need of support, visit our Step Into Caring Webpage to access tailored advice, resources, and guidance.
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
WELCOME The Circle of Security Program Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies: Strengthening Families Through Circle of Security Parenting The Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies (HMHB) program supports women, babies, and families during pregnancy and in the early months of a child’s life. It helps families stay healthy and connected by focusing on physical health, emotional wellbeing, social support, and access to services. As part of this support, Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies delivers the Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) program. Circle of Security helps parents and caregivers build strong, secure relationships with their children. It supports them to better understand their child’s feelings, needs, and behaviour, and respond in ways that help children feel safe, supported, and confident. By offering Circle of Security as part of HMHB, families receive support that strengthens both family wellbeing and the parent-child relationship. HMHB focuses on supporting the whole family, while Circle of Security provides practical tools to help caregivers nurture secure attachments and build confidence in their parenting. Both approaches recognise that when parents and caregivers feel supported, children thrive. They also remind us that parenting is not about being perfect. Instead, they encourage parents and caregivers to be kind to themselves, understand their child’s needs, and continue learning and growing in their parenting journey. To support families in our community, our next 8-week Circle of Security program will run in Term 4, 2026, and is open to all caregivers of children under six years of age residing in Hume and Whittlesea.
For more information about our maternal health support call
1300 234 263 (select option 6) or download the brochure here
Skin Cancer Awareness WELCOME Protect your Skin this Spring As spring brings more time outdoors, it's a great reminder to protect your skin. With Australia’s high skin cancer rates, prevention and early detection are essential.
Why Are Skin Checks Important? Regular skin checks can help detect skin cancers early, when treatment is often simpler and more effective. Becoming familiar with your skin and monitoring any new or changing spots can make a significant difference. Watch for: New moles or spots Changes in size, colour, or shape of existing moles Sores that do not heal Itchy, bleeding, or crusty skin lesions Five Sun Safety Tips: Slip on protective clothing Slop on SPF 50+ sunscreen Slap on a broad-brimmed hat Seek shade whenever possible Slide on sunglasses Did You Know? Skin cancer affects thousands of Australians every year. Most skin cancers can be successfully treated if found early. UV radiation can cause skin damage even on cooler or cloudy days. Take Action This Spring Perform regular self-checks of your skin. Book a professional skin check if you notice any changes or have risk factors such as fair skin, a personal or family history of skin cancer, or significant sun exposure. Make sun protection part of your daily routine. Your Health Matters Small preventive steps today can help protect your health tomorrow. This spring, take a moment to check your skin and encourage your family, friends, and colleagues to do the same.
To help you stay healthy this spring book an appointment with a GP
1300 234 263 (select option 1 for Medical) Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
“Hello, DPV Health”
1300 234 263 A better call experience, every time you contact us. We’ve made it simpler and faster to connect with the right service when you call us. Our updated 1300 234 263 number now features new clearer, easier to follow menu options, helping you get to the support you need, sooner.
General practice, Women’s health, Family planning, Health assessments and more.
Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Audiology, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Mental health and more.
Community dental, Affordable private dental & Emergency dental.
Victims Assistance Program, Health Mothers Healthy Babies, Family Violence supports, Homelessness services and more.
Support at Home, Single Assessment Service and more.
Site contact details, Opening hours, Billing & invoicing, Partnership enquiries and more.
Interpreter Services are available upon request. Early Childhood Development program, Adult disability services and more.
1300 234 263
dpvhealth.org.au
Easy, delicious Tacos
For more tasty, healthy and easy to make Recipes scan the QR codes or visit: www.goodfoodforgoodhealth.com.au
Serves: 4 Prep Time: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS ( 330 grams) Beef Mince Low Fat ( 1 tbsp) Vegetable Oil ( 1 medium) Brown Onion ( 1 tbsp) Taco Seasoning ( 1 cup) Red Kidney Beans Canned ( 2/3 cup) Corn Kernals ( 8 shell(s)) Taco Shell ( 1/3 cup) Lite Sour Cream ( 1/4 medium head) Iceberg Lettuce ( 2 medium) Tomato ( 2/3 cup) Low Fat Cheddar Cheese
Pulse Newsletter | Spring 26
PROCEDURE 1.Heat the oil in a shallow pan. Cook the mince meat until the water has evaporated. Add the onions, cook until wiilted and transparent. Add the Taco spices and mix well. Next add the beans and corn kernels and fold them through the meat. 2.Arrange chopped lettuce, shredded cheese, sliced tomatoes, and any other salad ingredients of your choice, on a tray 3.Once everything is ready, everyone can layer their own taco with meat and any other salad ingredients and sour cream they desire.
Children’s Services
1300 234 263
dpvhealth.org.au