Mental health and welfare experts join forces for vulnerable kids

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 28 September 2017

Anglicare Victoria has welcomed State Government funding which unites mental health and welfare experts to build a better future for young people living in residential care.

The Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos, today announced $4 million funding for the KEYS (Keep Embracing Your Success) program in Melbourne’s south.

The Australia-first program, will see Anglicare Victoria join Mind Australia and Monash Health to lead a program to boost young people’s physical and mental health, coach them in important life skills and reconnect them with education and the community.

Anglicare Victoria chief executive officer Paul McDonald said the trial has the potential to transform the way residential care is provided in Victoria – and give as many kids as possible the chance to live in home-based care.

“Kids living in residential care are among the most vulnerable in the out-of-home care system,’’ he said.

“This trial is about giving them the intensive, one-on-one support they need to make a real difference to their future.

“It’s an innovative, new approach that gives young people the best chance to thrive and move into a stable home or live independently.’’

Young people from the CREATE Foundation, who have direct experience of living in out-of home care, have helped design the program.

A team of case managers, family, community and educational specialists, and skills coaches will support young people living in the two single-sex homes over six to 18 months.

The ultimate aim is to help young people make a successful transition to a stable home – either with their own family, foster or kinship carers – or to live independently.

“Our new approach to residential care is about helping young people through an important transition and giving them every chance of success in the future,’’ Mr McDonald said.

Read the media release from the Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos.

Media Enquiries: E: media@anglicarevic.org.au P: (03) 9412 6173

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