Council Extends Youth Chat Service

Wyndham City Council is extending its Youth Check-in and Chat service to offer support to the city’s young people.

Director of City Life, Allison Kenwood said Wyndham’s young people needed extra support after months of lockdown and restrictions, which had a huge impact on their social lives that they depend on for their ongoing development.

“Studying from home with siblings – and possibly their parents working from home too – is a challenging situation for teenagers and young adults who are used to a certain freedom,” Ms Kenwood said.

“Our Youth Check-in and Chat, for residents aged 12 to 25 years, consists of six weekly phone or video sessions between a young person and a Wyndham City Youth Development Officer.”

“Our experienced youth workers specialise in helping young people set goals and stay motivated, providing practical and age-appropriate advice, strategies and assistance.”

“Our Youth Development Officers can discuss ideas of what to do in isolation to combat stress and boredom, how to develop life skills, implement strategies to help with relationships and future aspirations.”

“They can also liaise with young people’s schools, to help them re-engage with education.”

“We can connect young people with counselling, job service networks, education and training options, foodbank, housing, and Centrelink case managers.”

To register for the service, go to https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/youth-services/services-programs/youth-check-chat  or call 8734 1355.