The purpose of posting information, resources and links here is to provide Youth Homelessness Workers with the opportunity to share and learn from each other across DHS regions, as well as within regions.
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Projects
Here you will find information about what is happening in relation to regional and sub-regional projects and initiatives.
Creating Connections Regional Youth Homelessness Coordination Project
In late 2008, the Creating Connections Regional Youth Homelessness Coordination Project (RYHCP) in the North & West Metropolitan Region (N&WMR) commenced with two youth forums. In February 2009, the Regional Youth Homelessness Consultative Committee was established to explore opportunities for developing more coordinated responses to young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The committee is comprised of cross-sector representatives from youth homelessness, general homelessness, drug and alcohol, mental health and community health. The Committee identified two key projects by considering the major themes established through agency surveys, forums and Local Area Service Networks (LASNs), and the size and complexity of the region. These projects will contribute to improved accessibility and service coordination for young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in the North and West Metropolitan region.
The first project will establish the benchmark principles of holistic focused youth practice to be applied in assisting young people accessing the homelessness service system. In partnership with the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute, this project will develop principles, practice and competencies to apply to decisions in sector reforms and service development by LASNs and DHS.
The second project on will establish improved service coordination for young women who are pregnant and/or parenting across multidisciplinary service systems. This project will be undertaken in the Melton/Brimbank area and will explore issues around service coordination and guide discussions on client pathways for young parents who experience homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. HealthWest Partnership has been engaged by the committee to assist in the delivery of this project.
For information contact Mary Riley, Creating Connections Co-ordinator, Community Programs – Housing North and West Region, DHS ph. 9412 2713 or email mary.riley@dhs.vic.gov.au
