YOUTH SERVICES
Youth Connections provides a range of programs targeting youth matters. We cover areas such as reengagement back into schooling, VET mandated work placement and mentorship.
LINKS TO LEARNING
The Links to Learning Community Grants Program is administered by the NSW Department of Education. The Department provides funding to NSW based approved, not-for-profit, non-government community based organisations and local government authorities to deliver targeted projects to compulsory aged (Year 6 - Year 11) students at risk of disengaging from learning and/or at risk of leaving school early.
GENDER DISTRIBUTION
NUMBER OF STUDENTS AND SCHOOLS SERVED IN PROGRAMS
MEDIA CENTRE
Using industry software, students develop their skills in radio production by creating community service announcements, segments and performing musical pieces in studio.
As part of Youth Connections Media's community involvement, students also film content related to homelessness, indigenous rights, domestic violence and disability advocacy and are further encourage to create their own video projects that are posted on social media platforms.
Youth Connections’ Media Centre hosts a variety of work placement students from across the Central Coast and Sydney. Partnering with Coast FM 963, students host "Youth Hour" a music show showcasing their knowledge of musical artists.
Due to the closure of schools during the COVID-19 crisis our media centre was temporarily closed. When schools returned, so to did our Media Centre, with a focus on smaller classes and social distancing to ensure the safety of the students.
GENDER DISTRIBUTION
Premier’s Youth Initiative
However, the end results of maintaining study, gaining employment and developing all related skill sets are the measure of success.
While face to face delivery of the PYI program was impacted due to physical restrictions imposed by COVID-19 safety protocols, remote and online service delivery was unaffected and allowed our staff to continue to reach and impact the youth involved in the program.
The Premier's Youth Initiative (PYI) is a pilot program that provides services to young people leaving statutory out of home care in the Hunter and Central Coast region. PYI is run by Samaritans in partnership with Path2Change, My Foundations Youth Housing and Youth Connections. The pilot program gives young care leavers access to a personal advisor to help navigate their support services.
The program assists participants to develop strong personal networks and skills to navigate multiple adult support service systems and increase their capacity to manage crises and change as they transition to independence.
