Toni commented that she feels like she is part of the Club family and doesn't has butterflies before speaking to us, as she feels very comfortable at the Club. She said it was difficult to quantify the impact of our donation of $30,000.00 to pay for a youth worker in the three high schools in the 3216 area, but it definitely has had a big effect.
Toni came into contact with the NAB staff through our member Gerard Sell, and she would like to be able to demonstrate her thanks to both our Club and the NAB staff. To do this, Headspace has put a notice on their eight seater bus, saying that Headspace is supported by the Rotary Club of Belmont and staff of the NAB. The bus is pictured above, and although it is a bit difficult to see in the photo, the acknowledgement is towards the back of the side.
Over the last year 1,364 young people have accessed Headspace from the 3216 postcode area. 914 of these are female, and 419 are male. 389 came from the three schools which the youth worker visited. 1164 came back for a second visit, which is very important. The average age of the young people was 17.
Because of our Club the message is being spread more than before. Because of this, and through a connection with our Club, Christian College asked Toni to speak at the school on the first day of this school year. This was targeted to everyone at the school, including bus drivers, cleaners and anyone who comes in contact with the students. This all increases awareness of the mental health of young people in the community.
As a result of our donation, there are now more connections with the welfare staff of the schools and Headspace is receiving more referrals from them. Also, a key point is that many of the students are also self referring as a result of the program. Many parents are bringing in their children after the student has asked them to. Sometimes these young people want instant action, but have to learn to wait for their turn. Toni said it is good that these young people feel confident enough to ask for help.
Martin did a lot of school presentations and worked with both students and staff. Sometimes it can be a bit tricky if a student wants help, but doesn't want to involve their parents.
Last week was 'Drug Action Week' and Headspace worked with students using 'beer goggles'. These goggles make it difficult to see properly and give a feeling of what is like to be impaired by alcohol.