This National Child Protection Week (1-7 September), the theme “Every Conversation Matters” underscores the crucial role that meaningful dialogue plays in the lives of young people and children. At Brisbane Youth Service (BYS), these conversations are at the heart of our work—whether we are supporting those at risk of or experiencing homelessness or advocating for their distinct needs.
Our dedicated workers engage in vital conversations with children and young people daily, helping them articulate their needs and access crucial supports. The BYS Outreach Team connects with children and young people on the streets, ensuring they receive support whilst waiting for immediate accommodation to become available. These interactions build trust and provide a lifeline for those who might otherwise be overlooked.
Early intervention is a cornerstone of our work at Brisbane Youth Service (BYS). It involves addressing issues early in a young person’s experience of homelessness, supporting young parents to break the cycle for their children, and providing help to children seeking assistance.
Children at risk of homelessness require a tailored approach, distinct from services designed for older demographics. Our Safe and Connected Futures program, for example, focuses on preventing homelessness by repairing relationships between young people and their chosen family member or support person, helping them remain in a stable home environment.
James, a 13-year-old supported by our Safe and Connected Futures program, shares his experience:
“Things got worse at home, and I started acting out. I wanted to improve my relationship with my chosen family member, stop the arguments, and manage my emotions better. Safe and Connected Futures stepped in, mediated between us, and helped improve our communication. Thanks to Safe and Connected Futures, I’m now safely living at home and have positive support systems in place.”
While James was able to rebuild the relationship with his chosen family member and remain at home, at times, providing a “break” for both the young person and their family is essential. Ruby’s Reunification Model addresses this need by offering temporary accommodation for young people aged 12-17 while focusing on rebuilding family relationships through mediation and counseling.
BYS strongly supports increased access to such early intervention models to create stable and supportive environments where families can thrive and to alleviate pressure on homelessness support services. These early interventions are not only about immediate relief—they strive to ensure long-term housing stability and decrease the rates of children and young people entering the homelessness system. Keeping families together is a lifelong protective measure for success in adulthood. Timely support, even through brief interventions, helps children and their families overcome challenges, move out of crisis, and achieve life goals.
At Brisbane Youth Service, we will continue to advocate for the needs of children and young people. From 1-7 September for National Child Protection Week 2024, we invite everyone to join the conversation about the changes needed to ensure every child in every community has a fair go. The importance of these conversations and proactive interventions cannot be overstated in shaping new futures for young people and children.
Learn more about Child Protection Week and this year’s theme.