A starting point for healing

Over the past 12 months, Anglicare’s Supported Youth Program (SYP) has assisted 135 children and young people living in the State’s North and North West to take steps towards a brighter future.

SYP provides care and support for young people between the ages of 10-18 for up to two years. It’s free and confidential, offered by trained, caring professionals including social workers.

Anglicare’s State Manager Community Services, Marni Bos, describes SYP as a ‘relational safety’ program.

“Relational safety is about helping someone feel truly safe with you,” she explained. “They can trust that you’ll listen without judgement, respect their boundaries, and show up consistently.”

For someone who’s experienced trauma, it means they don’t have to protect themselves: they can just be, and feel seen, heard and valued. That kind of connection is where healing starts.

Young people living across the North and North West face barriers that include homelessness, family violence and difficulties in accessing independent income support. There is an urgent need for safe, affordable and appropriate housing right across Tasmania, with a recent Anglicare report identifying a particular need in the North West.

Some of the children and young people enrolled in the program have been at risk of intervention from Child Protection services and the youth justice system. Many have experienced trauma, which makes their situations very complex.

“They need wrap-around, intensive support for their mental health and goal-setting, including staying in education and planning for employment,” Marni said. “Some of the young people accessing SYP don’t live at home so we take the program to them, anywhere that feels safe.

“Each young person is unique, and we tailor a program for them that suits their stage of life and circumstances. We work with the young person to identify their strengths and aspirations so that they can take charge of their futures. At SYP, we see firsthand how a therapeutic approach that focuses on relational safety can make a real difference in young people’s lives.”

Recent feedback from young people enrolled in the program includes:

 “I felt I could open up without being judged”.

“You helped me become independent and we got all my goals done.”

“I’m feeling proud of myself.”

“I’ve felt like I could really trust [my support worker].”

Frankie’s story

Teenager Frankie* was referred to SYP in January 2024 after it became clear that they required ongoing, intensive support.

Frankie was experiencing ongoing mental health challenges, family conflict and safety concerns. They had recently moved into crisis accommodation and were seeking assistance to build independent living skills, regulate their emotions and re-establish a sense of connection with their community.

Frankie was open about their history of trauma, and early work focused on establishing relational safety. Sessions were often held in Anglicare’s Calm Corner, a creative and emotionally safe space.

Frankie was supported to build their independence at a pace that felt safe and achievable. Together, they and their worker explored practical steps such as applying for Youth Allowance and developing budgeting skills. With gentle guidance, Frankie also began to explore long-term housing options through the social housing system.

Frankie attended several Anglicare-run arts workshops, which gave them opportunities to engage with peers, increase their confidence and feel a sense of belonging.

They began learning to drive through a local learner mentor program. Despite their circumstances, Frankie remained committed to education and their longer-term goal of attending university. They have also started to rebuild a positive and safe relationship with their mother and siblings.

After more than 11 months in crisis accommodation, Frankie moved into their own unit at a Youth2Independence facility managed by Anglicare. When reflecting on their involvement with the program, they shared: “I really enjoy having someone to talk to and the outreach support. It’s been helpful to know I can reach out whenever I need it.”

*we have changed Frankie’s name to protect their privacy.

 How do I get in touch with SYP?

SYP is a highly sought after service, but the program does currently have capacity to take on additional clients. If you know of a young person who could benefit from this program, call Anglicare on 1800 243 232. Referrals can also be made through the Strong Families Safe Kids advice and referral line, 1800 000 123.

SYP is funded by the Department of Education, Children and Young People. Find out more on this webpage.

Helping young people like Frankie

Anglicare uses generous donations from parish partners, local businesses and individuals to provide additional support to the people who use our services. We used these funds to set Frankie up in their new home with household essentials, pay for school activities and equipment, and start the learning to drive process. For more information, check the Donate page on our website.