Supporting young people to achieve their goals.
Youth Access had a significantly busy year assisting requests for housing and support.
Jason 20, reached out for support earlier this year whilst he was experiencing a disruption in his mental health. He had been impacted on by a change in his accommodation whilst being required to seek clinical assistance in managing suicidal thoughts. The Youth Access Team were able to assist with a brief Intervention support period whilst still in hospital. An assessment of needs with Jason identified that he had multiple complex health conditions that may have not been adequately assessed or supported previously. Jason was supported with a review of his current NDIS plan. He was able to provide comprehensive information to support an increase in his supports and services. Jason was able to complete this support whilst in hospital prior to his discharge. Other support provided to Jason includes, attending to matters relating to personal affairs, completing a Department of Housing application and obtaining identification. Jason's housing needs were met through the STAY Program, where he continues to be supported by our Mobile Support team and receives clinical mental health support through the community. Jason will be presented to various complex panels for consideration for other housing opportunities as they present.
Kyle 18, in the past found it difficult to settle into new environments and he entered the service after his last placement broke down. He had been with Child Safety for many years and had been diagnosed with an intellectual impairment, ADHD and complex mental health issues, which at times can be challenging for him in the service environment. Kyle was open to understanding how his health could be better managed with support and could assist him in working towards his goal of independence. He was supported by the Team to apply for NDIS support, something that he had not considered doing in the past. Kyle was connected to other support within the community including an assessment from an occupational therapist, obtaining identification and learning the life skills to support his independence.
Alicia 17, entered the service after her relationship with her father became strained and was unable to continue to go to school because of the stress that she was feeling. Alicia felt that there had been a significant change in her mental health, was experiencing high level of anxiety and started to notice changes in her eating habits. She didn't know why she felt this way. Alicia was referred to clinical support to assist with her mental health and connected with support at school to assist her to continue to complete Yr 12. Her Clinical Psychologist was able to work initially with Alicia to understand and develop strategies to manage her feelings and then support the family through the reunification process. Alicia was able to rebuild her relationship with her family, complete her schooling and transition back into the family home with continual wrap around support.
The Tenancy & Support Program brief interventions are an immediate response for crisis assistance when there is no availability in immediate accommodation for young people 16-18 year or within our housing options.