Young people leaving out-of-home care in Victoria now have easier access to a comprehensive package of supports to help them make the transition from foster care, kinship care and supported accommodation to more independent lives.
(Media-Newswire.com) - Young people leaving out-of-home care in Victoria now have easier access to a comprehensive package of supports to help them make the transition from foster care, kinship care and supported accommodation to more independent lives.
Visiting the Leaving Care Helpline headquarters at Melbourne Citymission today, Minister for Community Services Lisa Neville officially launched a one-stop-shop for advice and assistance.
“Just like most teenagers, those living in out-of-home care need support when they take the step from living at home with their carers to living more independently,” Ms Neville said.
“The Brumby Labor Government understands this step can be a stressful and confusing time that is why we have set up the Leaving Care Helpline.
“Around 2,000 young Victorians aged between 16 and 21 will be eligible each year to receive help from this new service.
“They will receive practical help finding accommodation, education advice and financial assistance, as well as general support and practical advice either in person or via the Helpline.
“Supports can include brokerage funding for accommodation to cover bond and rent for up to a year to help the young person establish a good tenancy history.
“It can also include helping them gain part-time work, or fund study or training. Support is also available for young people who want to get their driver’s licence.”
One of the young Victorian care leavers to have already used the service, Rachel, spoke at the launch about her experiences.
“The service provides advice that has real benefits,” Rachel said.
“What surprised me was that it is not just the big stuff like accommodation and educational support that they can help with, I have even rung the advice line for help with a pasta recipe!”
Ms Neville said Rachel’s story was a real example of the practical assistance provided through the new Leaving Care Helpline service.
“We developed this specifically to help young people make the transition from out-of-home care to independent living and into adulthood with as much support as possible,” she said.
“All children deserve the best our community can provide, and the most vulnerable need to know that there is help available to them as they make their journey to adulthood.”
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