HUME CITY YOUTH STRATEGY - hume.vic.gov.au · PDF file HUME CITY YOUTH STRATEGY 2011 - 2014

www.hume.vic.gov.au

HUME CITY YOUTH STRATEGY2011 - 2014

Hume City Council

1079 Pascoe Vale Road, BroadmeadowsPO Box 119, Dallas, Victoria 3047Telephone 9205 2200 Facsimile 9309 0109

[email protected]

www.hume.vic.gov.au

HUME CITY YOUTH STRATEGY2011 - 2014

Introduction

A New Direction

The Policy Context

Development of the Strategy

Community Input and Consultation

Strategic Directions

Action Plan 2011 - 2014

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Glossary4

AcknowledgmentChris is the young artist responsible for the artwork in the headings of this strategy. He has been involved in the Hume City Council’s Street Art projects over the past year and is now a mentor to the young people who are taking part in future projects. Chris is 17 and lives in Craigieburn and has been interviewed by local media on a number of occasions finding himself in the local newspaper for the positive contributions he has made to the Street Art project and the community.

Acronyms and DefinitionsHCC Hume City CouncilLGA Local Government AreaOFY Office for YouthSD Statistical DivisionSLA Statistical Local AreaCALD Culturally and Linguistically DiverseLLEN Local Learning and Employment NetworkVU Victoria UniversityYACVic Youth Affairs Council of VictoriaHYC Hume Youth Commitment

Young person/young peopleIn the context of this document, a young person is aged 10 – 24 years and resides, works, goes to school or has a significant connection to Hume City.

Outreach ServicesServices not physically located in Hume may provide services to Hume by occupying space or facilities in the municipality, or youth workers may travel around the area or base themselves at ‘hotspots’ (eg skate parks) offering information and referral options.

Interface CouncilA Local Government Area at the boundary of metropolitan and rural Councils. Interface Councils characteristically have a mix of concentrated urban areas and rural townships with growth in new housing estates.

Glossary 5

Hume City Council is a part of the Interface Council network which is working to address the unique needs of young people who live within the fringe of Metropolitan Melbourne. Interface Councils are growth areas which are affected by increasing demographics and the need for suitable infrastructure development and service provision.

The Staying Connected report (2006) commissioned by the Interface Councils identified that there are insufficient services to meet current and projected demands in growth areas, and insufficient youth specific counselling, crisis support services and emergency housing and no capacity to manage the needs of young people with complex care needs.

The provision of high quality services for young people has been identified through a number of key State and Federal Government policies and reports as well as Council reports and strategies. The Hume Youth Strategy 2011 – 2014 reflects the commitment Council has to ensuring that young people are valued

members of the community now and into the future.

This Strategy consolidates the achievements from the Youth Services Framework and Strategy 2004 – 2007 and has been developed using a comprehensive process based on current research of existing and emerging youth issues and extensive consultation with community members, key stakeholders and Council officers.

The intent of this Strategy is that it will be adopted by the whole community in Hume, including community groups and agencies, schools and Council to ensure the best outcomes are delivered for our young people.

The actions identified in the Hume Youth Strategy 2011 - 2014 Action Plan aim to promote diversity and encourage activities which connect young people to each other and their community.

IntroductIon 7

The Hume Youth Strategy 2011 – 2014demonstrates Council’s aspiration to support young people to achieve their goals and be active, valued members of the community. It responds to the changing needs and the healthy development of Hume’s 39,000 young people.

What is in this Strategy for Young People?Strategies are often technical and bureaucratic documents which mean very little to a young person. The following are a few points on the key outcomes that young people can expect:

• Theprovisionofgeneralistyouthservicesis critical to support the healthy physical, social and emotional development of young people. This strategy identifies the gap at the secondary and tertiary end of the continuum where access to more intensive support services for young people in crisis or experiencing serious problems are not available and thus needs to be addressed in order to service the growth in youth population.

• Developmentofanoutreachserviceandadvocating for a youth specific counselling and support service to address the lack of service provision to isolated and vulnerable young people.

• Increase Youth Participation as a way to assist Council and community organisations to bring young people in as genuine partners to their work in order to create opportunities for young people to have meaningful roles at an operational level, as well as in the decision making structures of the organisation.

• Youngpeopleinterestedinexpressingthemselves, having their voices heard and developing leadership skills will have the opportunity to join 3 new groups, Young People’s Voices, Youth Reference Group and Hume Extreme Action Team (H.E.A.T). These groups offer the chance to guide the direction of programs and strategies.

• TheOutreachYouthWorkerrolewillassistin identifying and supporting young people

considered ‘at risk’ and will work closely to develop protocols with Victoria Police and greater partnerships with community agencies to advocate for increased services to address those in crisis and provide a localised service in the community where young people are.

• Advocatingforbettercommunicationand marketing mediums will allow young people access to information in a medium which they understand and utilise i.e Social Media.

• StudentsundertakingYouthWorkcourseswill have an enhanced and supported system to complete their field placements.

• Developmentofanaffirmativeemploymentaction statement by Council which will aim to increase employment options.

• UndertakingdevelopmentplansforeachYouth Centre will increase better program delivery from each site and allow young people the opportunity of developing and implementing programs.

A New

a new dIrectIon 9

How does this Strategy make a difference to Service Provision?The Strategy presents a coordinated framework of service provision by:

• Providingsustainableandplannedpartnership opportunities to work collaboratively on projects and funding submissions.

• WorkingacrossCounciltoprovideprofessional development in youth engagement principles and practices will educate others on meaningful and sustainable youth participation.

• Undertakinganannualyouthsurveyandcommunity mapping project which will be valuable to all service providers to assist with their planning.

• DevelopingaYouthServicescommunication and media plan to ensure all service providers are aware of Council’s Youth Services programs, services and activities.

• Increasingopportunitiesforengagementutilising youth culture, music and technology through the development of youth led initiatives ie Hume Studios, DJ, dance and hip hop programs in neighbourhood areas.

Hume City Council Youth Services will be organised to enable the potential for Council to use an Asset Building Approach in working with young people, ensuring their voices are acknowledged in decision making, as well as supporting agencies and groups in the community to deliver local youth services.

What is an Asset Building Approach to Youth Development?Asset building is a positive approach to working with young people that focuses on cultivating the relationships, opportunities, skills, values, and commitments they need to grow up healthy, caring, and responsible.

• Thefocusisonstrengths,notproblemsor deficits. Asset building recognises that young people are resources to their communities, not problems to be fixed or pushed aside.

• Thatyoungpeoplearerecognisedandtheirvoices are heard, and their involvement as leaders is vital.

• Allcommunitymembers,notjustyouthservice professionals are included when building assets and can include young people, parents, extended family members, youth workers, neighbours and teachers.

Cultivating meaningful, sustained relationships is a major focus. The development of partnerships with external agencies is critical to the sustainability of local youth services and research has shown that partnerships based on good planning builds enduring relationships across generations, within families, among peers, and throughout community and society.

a new dIrectIon 11

tHe PolIcy conteXt12

HCC Council Plan 2009 – 2013Council plans for the future by developing a four year Council Plan (Hume City Council Plan 2009-2013) which is linked directly to the Hume City Plan 2030 and is guided by comprehensive planning and research activities, feedback from surveys and meetings with the community.

Performance and outputs are evaluated throughout the year by monitoring and reporting to Council each quarter against the planned actions and budget outlined in the Council Plan.

These reports will be included in the Council meeting agenda and are available on Council’s website, fully disclosing our achievements and actions. By understanding our achievements and challenges we learn and reflect on our performance and incorporate this learning into our plans for the future.

HCC Social Justice Charter 2007The Hume City Council Social Justice Charter 2007 seeks to advance a fair and just society and to promote respect for every citizen, encourage community participation, strengthen community wellbeing and reduce the causes of disadvantage.

The Charter defines social justice in an endeavour to improve the experience of citizens and visitors, particularly those experiencing disadvantage. The Local Government Act 2003 specifies that Hume City Council’s primary objective is to ‘achieve the best outcomes for the local community’.

This Charter and the linked Social Justice Action Plans, provide a grass roots approach to disadvantage in Hume City.

Council Strategies and PlansThe Youth Strategy also complements the priorities for young people specified in other Council Strategies and Plans. Attached to each theme area in the Action Plan are the Council Strategies and Plans that identify young people as key recipients of services (current at the time of writing this document).

The Policy

IntroductIon 13

LONG TERM

Hume City Plan 2030

4 YEAR

2009 - 2013 Council Plan(including Strategic Resource Plan)

ANNUAL

Annual Plan & Annual Budget

Annual Divisional PlansStrategies

Policies

DevelopMent oF the

DEVELOPMENT OF THE HUME YOUTH STRATEGY 2011 - 2014

The Hume Youth Strategy 2011 – 2014 has been developed using an eight stage process. Each stage is a reflection of the importance of evidence-based information and transparent community consultation.

develoPment of tHe strateGy 15

COUNCIL PLAN 2009 - 2013Theme 3 Community Wellbeing

GOALDraft process for development of

Youth Strategy 2011 - 2014

STRATEGY8 Step Process

Review YouthServices

Framework andStrategy

2004 – 2007Contextual

analysis of past2 years

(FoundationDocuments)

&CommunityMappingexercise

Identify themesand gaps frominformation inStages 1 and 2 Develop

discussionpaper &

recommend onthemes and

gaps

Distributediscussion

paper to focusgroups and

conductcommunity

consultations

Confirm themesand gaps andidentify any

other themesthough analysisof consultation

Evaluation

Formation ofadvisory group

3 YEAR YOUTH STRATEGY and ACTION PLAN

Review of Current Council Youth StrategyThe Hume City Council Youth Services Strategy 2004 – 2007 was adopted by Council to guide the core business of the Youth Services department and to consolidate a clear role for the focus of Youth Services and youth based activity across the municipality.

The identified actions from the 2004 – 2007 Strategy were reviewed internally by the Youth Services team and the identified outcomes of the 2004 – 2007 Youth Strategy have been achieved through a variety of programs, partnerships and initiatives.


Foundation DocumentsThe development of Foundation Documents involved a review of existing research and youth consultations, government policy and Hume City Council strategies and policies as well as a community mapping project. Feedback was also sought from local service providers and youth workers about what is happening ‘on the ground’.

A contextual analysis of the past two years formed the Foundation Documents which have underpinned the direction of this strategy. The Foundation Documents (listed below) allowed a review of past and current service delivery and an analysis of where Youth Services sits within Council and the community.

> Hume City Council Young People: Profile and Demographics Projected Populations 2009

This document provides an overview of Hume residents aged between 10 and 24 years. The report is broken into six main sections covering demographics, health and wellbeing, police statistics, education, employment and income and household and family structure.

> Snapshot of Key Hume City Council Strategic Documents

As at December 2009 there were 19 Council plans and strategies which include young people as a receiver of services or are identified as important to engage to foster opportunities for healthy development as future leaders in the municipality. This snapshot document provides an overview of where young people fit into Council policies and plans.

> Review of Key Federal and State Government Documents

This document is an overview of Federal and State government policies, frameworks and action plans relating to young people; including policies on health, education, wellbeing and community connections.

> Review of Youth Consultation Reports

A number of consultations and surveys relating to young people in Hume have been conducted by Council and other youth organisations over the past few years. This document provides a summary of the key findings from these consultations.

Foundation Documents can be found on Councils website site www.hume.vic.gov.au

develoPment of tHe strateGy18

Community Mapping ProjectA survey of 200 service providers and local community groups has provided a comprehensive overview of youth activities and services across the municipality.

The aim of the community mapping project was to gain an accurate overview of the number and types of services and programs for young people that are currently being provided by agencies and organisations within Hume City.

Surveys were sent to local service providers including:

• schools

• communityserviceagencies

• sportingandrecreationgroups

• community/notforprofitorganisations

• religiousandchurchgroups

• governmentdepartments

• private(forprofit)organisationsandbusinesses

• internalHCCstaff

The community mapping survey was distributed by email, hard copy and via face to face and telephone interviews. The survey asked respondents to provide information about:

• thephysicallocationoftheagency

• thesizeoftheorganisation (number of staff)

• theageofyoungpeopleeligibleforservice

• thefocusoftheagency(eg:youthspecificor part of multi-disciplined focus such as youth and family services or drug/alcohol services)

• thegeographicalcatchmentareaforservice

• detailsofanyprogramsorservicesapplicable for young people (including any fees or waiting lists)

• challengestooperatingtheservice

61 responses were received. The largest number of responses was received from not-for-profit/welfare and church based organisations, followed by government

departments and neighbourhood houses. Whilst the response rate is at around 30%, this is a considerable basis from which to inform Council of the current levels of service provision and to provide a snapshot of current youth focused activities.

The most common types of services provided for young people are:

• personaldevelopment/lifeskillsprograms

• employment/educationandtraining

• communitydevelopmentactivities

The results in this section also highlighted alarming gaps in:

• YouthCounsellingandsupportservices.

• Transitionandlifeskillsprogramsfordisengaged young people

• accommodationandhousingservices

• materialaid/emergencyrelief

• mentalhealthservices

• drugandalcoholservices


Most services are physically located in HCC suburbs with 14 located outside the municipality.

Smaller townships on the border of the municipality such as Clarkefield, Diggers Rest, Donnybrook, and Upfield have no service provision. This may be attributed to the fact that they are also serviced by bordering municipalities.

Opportunities for partnerships were mentioned as something agencies would like more of, as well as sharing of resources and office space.

The key challenges facing agencies identified were:

• accesstoongoingfundingtocontinuecurrent levels of service and to deal with increasing demands in the future

• staffinglevelsandrecruitmentofskilledvolunteers

• limitedpublictransportimpactstheabilityof young people to access the service

• supportedreferrals

• promotionoftheservice/programs

Demographic ProfileHume City’s population has increased significantly over the last ten years. From 1996 to 2006 Hume experienced an annual growth rate of 2.4%, making it one of the fastest growing and largest growth municipalities in Melbourne.

With a population of 162,002, urban growth continues to occur around the Sunbury and Craigieburn areas, and the city has seen the establishment of ‘new’ suburbs such as Greenvale, Meadow Heights and Roxburgh Park. By 2013 Hume City is expected to reach a population of 173,000, and exceed 238,000 by 2030.

Hume’s youth population is also expected to grow from 39,244 in 2010 to 39,940 in 2013. By 2030 the number of young people aged between 10 and 24 will have risen to 50, 982.*

Further consideration of the urban growth boundary changes will impact on the demographic profile.

develoPment of tHe strateGy20

* http://forecast2.id.com.au/Default.aspx?id=216&pg=5210

** NB: High scores on the Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage occur when the area has few families of low income and few people with little training and in unskilled occupations. Low scores on the index occur when the area has many low income families and people with little training and in unskilled occupations

FAST FACTS FROM HUME CITY COUNCIL: Young People Profile and Demographics Projected Populations 2009

Sunbury has the largest concentration of youth aged 10 to 24 at 7,309, followed by Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park. (Census 2006)

the youth population of craigieburn is expected to increase from 6,962 in 2010 to 12,995 by 2030.

Hume City Council is ranked 4th most disadvantaged in Melbourne SD on the SEIFA Index of Disadvantage at 965.2 **

two in every three 15 to 24 year olds in Hume (66.3%) were attending some form of formal education at the 2006 census, slightly less than the msd average of 69.0%

Hume has the 4th highest proportion of humanitarian youth arrivals (6.2%) of all Greater Melbourne LGAs settled with 63 arrivals in the period

Hume had a lower percentage (64.2%) of young people who had completed year 12 or equivalent compared to melbourne (74.6%). young people from Broadmeadows were least likely to complete year 12 or equivalent.

Youth Disengagement (the number of young people, aged 15 to 24 who are not in paid employment or attending any formal educational) in Hume City is significantly higher at 11.9% compared to the Melbourne SD of 7.4%

family households in the Broadmeadows sla were least likely to have internet access, with just over half (55.1%) of all households having some form of access. overall, 65.5% of family households in Hume had some form of internet connection, 6.6% less than the melbourne sd average

Just over one in three young people speak a language other than English at home, with Turkish, Arabic and Assyrian being most commonly spoken languages at home

Hume has significantly higher rates of childbirth for mothers aged 24 years and under, almost double compared to the melbourne average at 44.8 births per 1,000 females compared to 22.6 for the melbourne sd

communIty InPut and consultatIon22

Issues for Young People Identified in Strategy Consultation215 participants took part in focus groups consultations as part of the development of the evidence base for the Youth Strategy. The Hume Youth Strategy 2011 – 2014 Issues and Ideas Paper provided the basis for public comment as well as topics which were addressed at focus groups held in late 2009.

For ease of correlating actions across Council strategies, the Issues and Ideas Paper categorised information for discussion under the four themes used in the Social Justice Charter Action Plan for Young People. The four themes of Inform, Access and Opportunity, Participate and Advocate highlighted current issues, gaps in services delivery, opportunities for development and emerging issues.

Questions structured under the four themes (Inform, Access and Opportunity, Participate and Advocate) asked participants about their current levels of knowledge and use of Council services, what they see as emerging

issues for young people and suggested approaches to improve youth related services in Hume.

The Inform theme explored ways Council can ensure information relevant to young people and their families is current and accessible.

The Access and Opportunity theme covered methods Council can use to ensure services are accessible to young people of all abilities and from all cultural backgrounds through improving service integration and coordination.

Topics in Participate looked at how Council can support young people to develop social supports, education and employment opportunities and participate fully in their local community.

Advocate acknowledged the issues that must remain on Council’s agenda to ensure young people are catered for in the future growth of the municipality and to make Hume a safe, accessible and environmentally sustainable place to live.

COMMUNITY

communIty InPut and consultatIon 23


INFORM• Buildingcommunitycapacity

• Supportingastrongcoordinatedservicesystem

• Councilcollaboration

• Parents–youthrelationshipswithparentsandinformation provision to parents

• Computersandtechnology

ACCESS and OPPORTUNITY• Indigenousyoungpeople

• CALDyoungpeople

• Youngpeoplewithdisabilities

• Mentalhealth

• Housingandhomelessness

• Growthcorridor/InterfaceCouncilservices

• Accessingresourcesandfundsforsustainableyouthprograms

PARTICIPATE• Youthparticipation

• Educationandtraining

• Employment

• Facilities,entertainmentandactivitiesforyoungpeople

• Localenvironment

ADVOCATE• Communityperceptionsandmediarepresentationofyoung

people

• Transport

• Communitysafety

• Policerelationships

• Graffitimanagement

• Drugsandalcohol

• PlanningandPolicy

Key Findings from Focus GroupsThrough the consultation undertaken by Council’s Youth Services; young people, parents, carers and services providers in Hume identified the following items as their greatest needs/concerns:

Inform

• Bothadultsandyoungpeoplehadverylittle knowledge of Council services, or had misconceptions about the role of youth centres and the level of authority/role of local government.

• Mostyoungpeopleaccessinformationthrough the internet, electronic communication and via word of mouth/friends. There is a need for more information about Council services in more accessible formats (community languages, internet based, for people of all abilities).

• Asmallnumberofyoungpeoplehadaccessed Council’s website. Those who had used the website found it was not user friendly and had difficultly finding youth related information.

• Personalcontact/relationshipswithserviceproviders are important to disseminate and clarify information and to build trust and confidence for a young person.

Access and Opportunity

• Limitedpublictransportimpactstheabilityto socialise, access community services and education or employment.

• ManyservicesareoftenbasedoutoftheCouncil area and not accessible after hours or on weekends. There is a severe lack of crisis intervention services (mental health, detox, accommodation) physically located in Hume.

• Englishlanguageissuesimpactonpeople’sability to access services and participate in community life.

• Parentswantsupporttobringuphealthyadolescents but are increasing aware of the ‘generation gap’.

• Youngpeopleneedsupportedreferralsto access services and opportunities, particularly at times of transition or crisis.

• Limitedopportunitiesforyoungpeopletoaddress issues before they become problematic. Youth workers and mentors have a positive impact on vulnerable young people, as they can provide links to community supports.

“I thought the youth centre was only for kids with problems” - Young person, GNSET Graphic Novel Club, Sunbury

(the closure of vu) “...sends the message that Hume people are not worthyofattainingadegree–justcertificate level in technical areas; nothing intellectual”- Parent, cald background, roxburgh Park

“It’s hard to find entry level jobs which offer a secure future.” - young person, syGa group, sunbury



Participate

• Manyyoungpeoplehavenoconcreteaspirations for the future and little knowledge of post school options.

• Lackofafterschoolhoursandweekendactivities/recreation options for young people not involved in mainstream sport and recreation was identified. Perception of Youth Centres was that they are places for ‘troubled’ young people.

• Localenvironment/greenissuesareimportant to young people. Parks and outdoor spaces need to be safe, community owned places for recreation and socialising.

• Manyyoungpeopletalkedaboutthepotential for Hume to increase large scale attractions (eg: film festivals, V8 supercars, a wave pool or local celebrities hosting entertainment events).

• Opportunitiestodevelopprogramsandservices that assist young people to participate fully in community life should be a priority for all service providers.

Advocate

• Mediaandcommunityhaveunfounded,negative perceptions of Hume as a place of violence, drug deals and second class citizens. Most young people and families are proud of their address and want to increase a sense of community pride.

• Aneedtoadvocateforbetterpublictransport in growth areas and better bus services after 9pm.

• Violenceonstreets,attrainstationsandatschool (bullying) is also an area where an advocacy role is needed.

• Drugandalcoholusewasseenasamajorissue by young people and professional workers.

• OpportunitiesexistforCounciltoactasa partner in programs and be involved in responses that improve police/youth relationships.

• Proposalsweremadebyyoungpeople,school staff and parents to increase the number of programs and ‘hands on’ activities in the municipality that

have a focus on health/wellbeing issues (recreation/sport, sexual activity, smoking, mental health/depression), future pathway planning (tertiary/TAFE education, employment, work experience) and positive peer relationships.

• Youngpeopleexpressedtheirdislikeofgraffiti and vandalism of local areas.

“Hume is drab, it needs more beautiful areas with bright lights and neon signs – exciting looking to attract a range of people…..like a big sports stadium or international art gallery” - Young person, Craigieburn Youth Centre

“People give you that look, and you know exactly what they think about you…” - Young mother, Craigieburn

“There are some great names for where we live over here in the north… Crud (i.e.Craigieburn), Broadghettos, Scumbury…” - Young person, SYGA group, Sunbury


this youth strategy builds on enhancing and progressing activities and initiatives that have been identified as working well. the following list is by no means exhaustive; however, they have been identified by council officers, young people and community stakeholders as initiatives, which deliver positive community benefits:

FReeZA

FReeZA is a statewide initiative funded by the Victorian government Office for Youth. The key purpose of FReeZA is to organise music and cultural events for young people by young people. FReeZA operates within a strong youth participation framework. Hume City Council Youth Services is strongly committed to FReeZA and to improving outcomes for young people across the municipality, and is dedicated to state and federal youth participation programs.

National Youth Week

National Youth Week is a national celebration of the achievements of young people. The Victorian government provides funding to assist in the provision of projects and activities that acknowledge the skills and talents of young people. National Youth Week events are celebrated throughout the municipality by providing young people with the opportunity to participate in a range of activities.

Skating Program

The core aims of this program are to:

• Celebrateskateculture.

• Provideopportunitiesforyoungpeopletocomplete their Level 1 Skate Coaching and First Aid qualifications.

• Celebrateyoungpeople’sculture,andencourage a community wide recognition of the skill and creativity expressed by young skaters.

• Provideopportunitiesforyoungpeople to develop skills in leadership.

• Increaseparticipationandaddressissuesof unacceptable social behaviors at skate parks.

• Providenewexperiencesatneworinfrequently accessed destinations.

• Enhanceprideofplaceandcommunityconnection.

WHAT We Do



Leadership – Youth Participation

Opportunities for skill development and leadership is offered through the youth participation groups (Young People’s Voices, Freeza, Youth Reference Group etc). The aim of the Youth Participation groups are based on an understanding that most established organisations do not have young people under the age of 30 in leadership roles. There are limited opportunities for young people to participate meaningfully in the operational and governance structures as equals and it is through the Youth Participation groups, and with the right support, that young people can be brought into the culture and structures of organisations.

Youth Development Programs

A number of youth development programs are provided throughout the year in partnership with service providers and schools targeting young men and women. These programs are developed based on local area needs identified by young people, schools, professional networks, and the community. Youth development programs aim to provide life skills, recreation opportunities, personal development and esteem building as well as opportunities to make connections with other young people in the local area.

LinkIn Multicultural Youth Program

LinkIn is funded by the federal government to provide opportunities for newly arrived young people to make a supported transition into their new community and neighbourhood in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Street Art Program

In partnership with HCC Technical Services team and the Graffiti Management Strategy, the Street Art program offers young people the opportunity to participate in a 12 – 15 week program that outlines the issues in relation to illegal graffiti, the law and the consequences associated with it. The program also offers the participants the opportunity to work with professional street artists on the development of murals in areas of Hume that have been identified as high graffiti areas.

Festivals and events

Participation in local events and festivals offer the opportunity for young people’s diversity to be recognised as strength, and for them to display their individuality, talents and skills.


Service Planning

Development of strategic documents and data to assist community organisations to develop activities and programs based on relevant and current data.

Hume Youth Commitment

In partnership with young people, the Hume Youth Commitment (HYC) aims to engage the community to provide real and diverse education and employment opportunities for the young people of Hume.

In particular, the HYC is committed to support all young people to complete Year 12 or its equivalent and to implement strategies that promote a seamless transition to further education or the workplace.

The formation of the HYC came from a shared desire by organisations in Hume to combine resources and efforts to ensure real change for the benefit of young people.

The Way ForwardTo ensure that supports and services are available to all young people as early as possible, the way forward identified in this strategy and subsequent Action plans identifies that the optimum outcomes should be a service system that provides

1. Early identification and intervention

2. Engagement in education, training and employment

3. Local planning for youth services

4. Tailored responses to particular groups

5. Effective services with qualified staff

The Action Plans in this Strategy provide Youth Services to either directly address issues identified in focus groups or to develop partnerships or advocate for where there are gaps in service provision.

The Youth Services team will continue to provide programs and initiatives using strategic methods that are developed on

evidence based research and from an asset-building approach to youth development. Direct service delivery will occur when there is clear evidence that supports the need and is within the resources of the team.

StaffingThis Strategy provides a new set of deliverables for Youth Services, which are closely aligned with the Council Plan and Council’s values and community development ethos.

The task for the Youth Services team is in building the capacity of all departments of Council to engage young people. It is anticipated that the actions in the Strategy will build the strength and resources of Hume staff and management to better understand and build their skills in consulting and working with young people.

Youth Services will be working across all areas of Council to provide support, guidance and professional development to staff.

StRAtegIc

The Youth Services team will reflect a more developmental and strategic approach to working with young people and across Council departments and the development of community partnerships.

locationyouth services is located within the city Infrastructure department of council. youth services workers are based at four youth centres across the municipality, as well as the council offices in Broadmeadows.

the youth facilities need to be managed and planned for growth in a constructive way based on the changing needs of the community. In 2009 youth services was successful in a consortium bid to deliver services under the youth connections program.

youth connections is a three year funded program which aims to address issues relating to disengaged young people. along with other leading community

service providers, the youth centres will become key places in the delivery of youth connections and other youth specific services that will be based locally in Hume. It is imperative that council retain and develop the youth centers to address the needs of local communities.

the development of the craigieburn town centre will provide opportunities for council to expand youth specific services to address the needs of the growing youth population.

with the youth population in craigieburn expected to double in the next twenty years (6,962 in 2010 to 12,995 by 2030) it is imperative that youth services has a strong profile in the heart of the town.

youth services will advocate for a presence in the entertainment precinct in craigieburn with the development of a shopfront-styled youth centre based on the successful models in whittlesea (the edge at westfield Plenty valley) and at northland shopping centre. these youth

facilities provide information, services and targeted programs for local young people.

with the anticipated population growth in sunbury, youth services will plan for increased services to be located within the community to service the growing demands of young people and their families.

strateGIc dIrectIons34

Planning, Reporting & ManagementAn enhancement of reporting tools, briefings, professional development and research activities will support the planned approach to ensuring all Council Executive Management Team, elected representatives and other key internal stakeholders are informed of key youth issues.

Partnerships and Service DevelopmentNumerous networks and partnerships across Hume City and neighbouring LGAs have been working to improve service collaboration and coordination and to address regional issues for young people. Youth Services will continue to support or be represented on key networks (outlined below) and play an active role in the development of regional strategic planning.

Youth Focused Professional Networks• NorthernMetropolitanRegionalYouth

Affairs Network (RYAN)

• InterfaceCouncilsYouthServicesCommittee

• NorthernYouthServicesCoordinatorsNetwork

• NorthWestWorkerswithYouthNetwork(Hume/Moreland)

• CraigieburnandRoxburghParkNetwork(CARP)

• SunburyYouthNetwork(SYN)

• HumeWhittleseaYouthConnectionsConsortium

• NorthernRegionSkateLeague

• HumeMorelandYouthCulturalConnections

Other services• HumeYouthCommitment(HYC)

• HumeWhittleseaLocalLearningandEmployment Network (HWLLEN)

• HumeSchoolFocusedYouthService(SFYS)

• HumeYouthResourceOfficersandMulticultural Officers (Victoria Police)

actIon Plan 2011 - 201436

ACTION

37

HUME YOUTH STRATEGY 2011 – 2014Youth Engagement Framework

INFORMACCESS and

OPPORTUNITYPARTICIPATE ADVOCATE

Partnerships,Information and Service

Delivery

Youth Programs andEvents

Participation andDevelopment

Advocacy andCoordination

OBJECTIVEDevelop partnerships with

relevant community agenciesand services and build the

capacity of Councildepartments to engage with

young people

OBJECTIVEPromotion of young people as

valued members of thecommunity now and into the

future

OBJECTIVEEngage young people in

planning and decision makingprocesses on things which

affect them

OBJECTIVEAdvocate to State and Federalgovernment, the community

and across Council forappropriate recognition andresponses to young people’s

needs

HOW WE WILL DO THISProvision of information

and resources, InformationCommunication Technology, Youth Centre development, Partnership development,

Structured outreach, Professional development

provision, Local area planning and Framework, Annual youth

survey, Reports to Council

HOW WE WILL DO THISYouth empowerment and

celebration, Arts programs, Provide opportunities forhealthy social interaction,Provide opportunities for

skill development andtraining

HOW WE WILL DO THISLeadership Development,

Youth participation, Learning and employment pathways,

Provide opportunities fortrainees and support

opportunities for socialenterprise, Support of volunteers and Youth

Work students

HOW WE WILL DO THISSupport youth networks, Raise awareness of youth

issues,Promote positive youth

images and stories,Pursue funding opportunities

OUTCOMEResilient, productive, skilled young people who are connected to their community and are proud to be in Hume

INFORM

Youth EngagementFramework

Partnerships, Information and Service Development

Council PlanStrategy

1.1.4 Provide high quality and responsive services to meet the needs of a growing and changing community.3.2.6 Ensure appropriate levels of service delivery in growth areas and established areas in Hume. 3.1.2 Partner with Federal and State Governments, non-government organisations and community groups to strengthen

the range of activities and facilities available to entice increasing numbers of people to participate with other community members.

Supporting CouncilPlans

· Social Justice Charter Young People Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Social Justice Charter Community Empowerment Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Social Justice Charter One City Many Cultures Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Learning Together 3 Plan 2010 - 2013· Community Safety Strategy 2009 – 2013· Community Survey 2009/10 Report· Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2009 – 2013

OBJECTIVE Develop partnerships with relevant community agencies and services and build the capacity of Council departments to engage with young people

INFORM


Ensure there is a balance of direct service delivery, coordination and planning with Council’s Youth Service team to reflect a more developmental and strategic approach to working with young people across Council departments and to support the development of community partnerships.

Provision of information and resources, including data and research to internal and external stakeholders, particularly young people and their families.

Establish a Social Networking site specific to Youth Services and develop youth pages on HCC website.

Allocate 25% of existing time to an EFT position to ensure webpages, social media and promotional materials are current.

A Youth Centre Development Plan will be written for each HCC youth facility based on local area planning and changing demographics with the objective to provide appropriate spaces, events and resources for current and future use.

Partnership development will continue with community agencies and local and state government departments to assist with providing quality services within the municipality.

The Outreach Worker position will explore and gather evidence on the complex needs of young people who are at risk, engage with young people in their community and develop appropriate partnerships and referral protocols to support young people in crisis and/or ‘at risk’.

Council to endorse the adoption of the YACVic Code of Ethical Practice – A First Step for the Victorian Youth Sector

Coordinate an annual professional development program for Youth Services staff and internal staff and conduct two annual Youth Services planning days

Continue to review and undertake evaluation processes enabling clear evaluation of services, to support ongoing strategic development and to assist in meeting funding requirements.

Undertake regular Local Area Planning activities to identify emerging issues for young people and provide a planning framework for future collaborative actions to address local area planning issues.

Undertake a Youth Survey annually during National Youth Week.

Review the current monthly reporting tool utilised by Youth Services and provide regular reports to Council on youth issues and the status of youth services provision across the municipality.

Continue to promote and support the work and growth of the HYC.

ACTIONS

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ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITY


Youth Programs and Events


3.1.1 Enhance community life and social cohesion by promoting the diverse activities available in Hume toindividuals, groups and organisations that offer opportunities to develop relationships and mutual respect.3.1.3 Identify individuals, families and communities within Hume that are less able to access existing activities andfacilitate additional initiatives that are likely to increase opportunities for them to realize their potential throughall stages of life.3.3.3 Facilitate arts and cultural activities in Hume that contribute to community strengthening and inclusion4.1.4 Provide high quality parks, open spaces and public spaces


· Social Justice Charter Young People Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Social Justice Charter Community Empowerment Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Social Justice Charter One City Many Cultures Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Learning Together 3 Plan 2010 - 2013· Arts and Cultural Development Strategy 2009 - 2013· Community Survey 2009/10 Report· HCC Marketing Strategy 2007-2010· Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2009 – 2013

OBJECTIVE Promotion of young people as valued members of the community now and into the future


ACCESS AND OPPORTUNITY

Develop Youth Services promotional material in alternative formats and community languages to ensure access for all young people.

Establish, maintain and promote a calendar of events for young people.

Develop a marketing strategy to promote HCC youth information and programs which includes the utilisation of existing Council publications and the use of electronic media.

Ensure Freeza events reflect the diversity of musical interest, cultures and tastes of young people across the municipality.

Utilise and promote festivals and events as a catalyst for youth empowerment and celebration.

Continue to apply for external funding to support National Youth Week, Freeza and LinkIn programs to encourage and support young people to be recognized as equal citizens and to have active participation in community life.

Provide opportunities for young people to participate in alternative arts activities and provide regular reports on the promotion, functions, memberships, activities and

training provided to participants. (eg. continue the Street Art program, re-establish youth magazine into digital form, etc).

Provide opportunities for healthy social interaction by reviewing the HCC Teenage Holiday Program and other social and personal development programs as avenues for young people to meet others and have new experiences.

Provide opportunities for skill development and training by utilising the sound recording studio at Sunbury Youth Centre as a space to establish a music development program to give young people an opportunity to increase their technical and musical skills.

Apply for funding to upgrade the recording studio and band room at Sunbury Youth Centre for young people of all abilities to increase their skills.

Through the Centre Development Plan, investigate the possibility of the back room at Youth Central Broadmeadows for use as a technology lab or multi media room.

In consultation with staff, local agencies and young people develop an annual

calendar of training opportunities for interested young people. i.e transport awareness program for young people new to the area.

Allocation of roles within the Youth Services team to ensure current and relevant information is available at key distribution points including Council facilities i.e. libraries, leisure centres, and non Council facilities such as community and neighbourhood houses, Health Centres and other relevant venues of interest for young people.

Apply for external funding in partnership with other agencies when appropriate and as identified within the Youth Strategy 2011 - 2014

Promote positive youth images and stories in the local media and regularly monitor media coverage of young people and maintain a portfolio of youth related articles on local issues.

Promote Hume as a safe and vibrant place for young people to work and live, work and play.

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ACTIONS

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PARTICIPATE


Participation and Development


1.1.2 Promote Council’s services and initiatives.1.1.3 Promote Hume City Council as a leading employer


· Social Justice Charter Young People Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Learning Together 3 Plan 2010 - 2013· Arts and Cultural Development Strategy 2009 – 2013· Community Survey 2009/10 Report· Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2009 – 2013

OBJECTIVE Engage young people in planning and decision making processes on things which affect them


PARTICIPATE

Review, re-think and refine current HCC strategies which identify young people in key performance indicators but have no mechanisms to support and encourage them in meaningful participation.

Develop and adopt an affirmative youth employment statement within Council, incorporating apprenticeships, traineeships and school based apprenticeships.

Develop governance and policy to ensure meaningful participation of young people is embraced across Council.

Develop terms of reference and membership forms for all Council’s youth participation groups (eg: National Youth Week Working Group, Youth Reference Group, FReeZA) and make available on line.

Develop protocols and process for young people’s contribution to relevant Council and community planning activities.

Actively engage, consult and involve young people in local decision-making.

Promote opportunities for learning and employment pathways. Implement the Moving Forward program in 2010 (for highly disengaged young people) and seek additional funds to continue beyond current funding period.

Work collaboratively across Council departments and with local stakeholders through the HYC to implement strategies to increase employment and social enterprise opportunities for young people.

Continue sponsorship of HWLLEN “Making Choices Breakfast” and other employment focused HYC events

Provide opportunities for registered volunteers to support a variety of events and programs for young people.

Allocate 10% of existing EFT to support volunteers and students.

Strengthen and formalise relationships with TAFE and education providers to facilitate meaningful placements for young people and Youth Workers in training.

Identify projects and research opportunities for tertiary students annually.

Establish protocols with leading Youth Work courses that incorporate practical learning activities and opportunities for reflective practice.

Organise and conduct professional development and training forums for internal departments and external agencies on effective methods of advocacy, engagement and support when working with young people.

Facilitate young people’s involvement and active participation in the planning, promotion and delivery of youth activities at festivals and events through the establishment of a National Youth Week (NYW) working group that will plan, coordinate and implement a calendar of events during NYW.

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ACTIONS

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ADVOCATE


Advocacy & Coordination


1.1.7 Promote Hume City Council as a leader in Local Government.3.1.3 Identify individuals, families and communities within Hume that are less able to access existing activities andfacilitate additional initiatives that are likely to increase opportunities for them to realise their potentialthrough all stages of life3.1.5 Seek funding opportunities to expand the range of available programs and activities that promote respect,strengthen community wellbeing and reduce causes of disadvantage.3.1.2 Partner with federal and State Government, non government organisations and community groups tostrengthen the range of activities and facilities available to entice increasing numbers of people to participatewith other community members.


· Social Justice Charter Young People Action Plan 2007/08 – 2009/10· Learning Together 3 Plan 2010 - 2013· Arts and Cultural Development Strategy 2009 – 2013· Community Survey 2009/10 Report· Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2009 – 2013

OBJECTIVE Advocate to State and Federal government, the community and across Council for appropriate recognition and re-sponses to young people’s needs


ADVOCATE

Advocate for the establishment of a MySpace page for youth music and events. Establish a Youth Services Facebook page to bring HCC Youth Services in line with other LGA Youth Services departments.

Support Youth Committees to maintain and provide input into Council’s social media sites like Facebook and MySpace in order to promote Freeza and other Youth Services activities and events.

Work with all Council departments and local services to advocate for young people on issues relevant and current to them (eg transport, housing, mental health, drugs, safety etc).

Advocate for appropriate services and further funding for youth specific crisis support services to be located within Hume.

Continue to be a signed member of the HYC. This collaboration with other HYC stakeholders will assist Youth Services to address many of the actions identified within the strategy.

Represent and advocate for youth issues at relevant networks and forums. Ensure at least 80% attendance at RYAN, Interface Council, and local network meetings.

Sponsor, promote and advocate for programs and services which recongise the current, diverse and emerging cultures of the young people and their families living within the municipality.

Apply for new initiatives and external funding for additional Youth Workers to support youth participation groups, programs, events and activities. A minimum of 1.5EFT required to meet the demographic group.

Advocate for a trainee position within the Youth Services Team.

Continue to support the priority issues identified by the Interface Councils Youth Campaign in the areas of homelessness and mental health.

Partner with community agencies that have Deductable Gift Recipient Status and philanthropic organisations to increase opportunities to attract external funding.

Investigate opportunities to increase transport options and promote travel information/awareness for young people.

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ACTIONS

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