Sixteen-year-old Iris loves dancing, writing and connecting with the people around her. She hopes to teach dance in her community and go to university, working towards a future where she can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
With greater independence among her goals, Iris began working with youth lead practitioner Kathryn to build her confidence, strengthen her connections and participate in more of the activities that matter to her.
Iris had been experiencing social anxiety and sometimes found it difficult to participate in activities outside her home. She wanted more opportunities to meet people, build friendships and feel confident navigating everyday life.
Kathryn took the time to understand Iris’s experiences, interests and aspirations. Working together, they identified what was important to Iris and explored practical steps she could take towards her goals.
Their work has focused on building skills for self-advocacy, navigating challenges and participating more confidently at school and in the community.
Iris continues to work towards greater independence in ways that are meaningful to her.
She is participating more at school, spending time with friends and exploring activities connected to her interests and future goals. Each step is helping Iris learn more about herself, practise new skills and make her own choices about the life she wants to build.
Kathryn has enjoyed seeing Iris’s creativity and determination come through as she works towards what is important to her.
Iris is extremely creative and interested in a wide range of ideas. She wants to get out and enjoy her life like any other teenager, and to be confident and happy whilst doing it.
She wants opportunities to succeed, and she is determined to do what she can to take action and reach the stars.
Everyday Independence supports young people aged 9–25 to build the skills, confidence and independence to participate more fully in everyday life.
A youth lead practitioner works alongside the young person and their family as their main point of contact. They take the time to understand what is important to the young person, plan their services, deliver much of their support and coordinate a team around their individual needs and aspirations.
Our youth lead practitioners are degree-qualified social workers, specialist educators, youth workers, developmental educators or mental health nurses. They work closely with other therapists including occupational therapists, speech pathologists, physiotherapists, behaviour support practitioners, employment coaches and other practitioners when their expertise is needed.
This means the young person has one main practitioner, supported by the right team, helping them build skills, confidence and greater independence.
This approach can support young people to:
Our youth teams provide support where young people live, learn, work and spend time. This helps them practise their skills in real situations and make progress towards goals that are meaningful to them.
Would you like to know more about how our youth services could support you or a young person in your family? Speak to our team on 1300 179 131 or complete an online form to get started.
Iris’s story reflects her individual experience. Every young person’s goals, support needs and outcomes are different.
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