Why the youth precinct model works
It's committed to supporting young people to leave the homelessness system
We want young people to exit the homelessness service system permanently, and lead self-sufficient, successful lives.
It's linked and holistic
The youth precinct will work with young people to determine the level and kind of assistance they need to overcome homelessness, and then provide this strategic, coordinated support long term.
It's a solid, secure base to work from
The most important starting point when overcoming homelessness is a safe, secure place to stay. The youth precinct will provide this safe, secure place, allowing young people to focus on other parts of their lives.
It offers a combination of resources and opportunities that complement where a young person wants to go in life
Whatever goals a young person sets themselves, whatever direction they want to travel, the youth precinct will provide the tools to help them to get there.
It's youth specific
As the name suggests, the youth precinct has been designed with young people in mind, and will contain everything young people need to create for themselves sustainable, successful lives.
It offers support when it's needed
Young people in the youth precinct will have a case manager that will help them to set and achieve goals, as well as adapt to their new changing circumstances.
It's flexible and dynamic
The youth precinct will support the pathways young people choose, and make sure that this support continually targets each young person's changing goals.
It introduces young people to mentors and role models
An integral part of the youth precinct is SCEEC (Slingshot Community Enterprise and Employment Centre) where young people can interact with mentors and role models. Through these interactions young people gain self-esteem, grow their interpersonal skills, learn to network with others and develop cutting-edge business skills relevant to the current job marketplace.
The youth precinct model is based on Melbourne Citymission's Step Ahead program, which over the last 3 years supported 42 young people to leave the homelessness services system and get on with their lives.
