RCH logo

Chronic Illness Peer Support (ChIPS)

How to join ChIPS

  • Referral process

    If you are interested in becoming part of the ChIPS program the first step is to complete a referral form and return it to the ChIPS office. All referrals need to be endorsed by a healthcare professional who is part of the young person’s treatment team. 

    Referral Form PDF

    Referral process step-by-step

    1. Submit a referral to ChIPS: this can be done by emailing the referral form linked above or your RCH healthcare professional can do this internally through the Electronic Medical Record (EMR).
    2. ChIPS staff will review the referral and consult with medical staff if necessary. ChIPS staff will access your EMR as part of this step (RCH patients only).
    3. If your referral is accepted a member of the ChIPS staff will contact the young person or guardian to arrange a time to meet.
    4. After a face-to-face assessment ChIPS staff members will assess if the young person is suitable for the ChIPS program, and if the ChIPS program is suitable for them.
    5. The young person will then either be invited to attend an intake group or will be given alternative resources and options for support with more appropriate services.

    All new participants must complete an intake group (typically 1 full day) before they can join in the fun and enjoy year-round recreational, social and leadership activities.  

    For eligibility to join the ChIPS Program you must be: 

    • Aged 12 (and in high school) to 25 years of age. 
    • Living with a primary diagnosis of a chronic medical illness.  
    • Able to attend an intake group (typically 1 full day). 
    • Ready and able to participate and function well in a group setting 

    ChIPS does not accept referrals for young people whose primary diagnosis is:

    • An eating disorder
    • A mental health condition
    • Somatoform or Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)
    • Cancer 

    If you have any questions about a young person's suitability for the program, would like some more information on the referral process, or wish to discuss detailed referral criteria please contact the ChIPS office on (03) 9345 6616.

Print