Young people all over the Yarra Ranges have now had access to the Lilydale Youth Hub since November last year and it has been receiving encouraging results.
With a focus on improving the mental health and wellbeing of the young right across the Yarra Ranges, case workers and staff have been thinking of creative ways to interact and support young people.
With yoga sessions, art therapy, animal therapy and a tattoo design workshop all on offer, the variety means there’s something for everyone, even if they have never done it before.
“I was a bit nervous and excited the first time I came to the Hub. Yoga was something different that I hadn’t tried before,” one young person said.
Peer support worker Kylie, who has over eight years experience teaching yoga, teaches the classes and said she focuses on teaching them breathing, positivity, and connection to self.
The mindfulness and wellbeing tools help young people feel relaxed and clear minded after the sessions and is something that can be used in their daily lives.
“I like the Hub because they help with anxiety and depression, but they do it in ways that aren’t boring or intense therapy,” the young person said.
“They help me with what I’ve got going on but I also get to do fun activities too.”
Kylie said she is loving seeing the young people develop and it is a huge benefit having a safe and welcoming space for them to come to to engage with their health and wellbeing.
As the Hub grows through word of mouth, it hopes to include more activities and events to be inclusive of all young people.
Currently in the works at the Hub are a youth fair, a pride event, Friday night hangouts and the team are in the process of enlisting young people to its Youth Action Group where they can help plan events and activities and have a sense of ownership over the Hub.
The consortium of services provides young people aged 12 to 25 with peer support workers, counsellors, one-on-one guidance and mentoring and takes a holistic support approach.
With an open door policy for people to charge phones, have a chat with someone or get a snack, the proven effects of the Youth Hub are already showing through in the positive outcomes it’s having on those who attend regularly.
“I came here with friends, and they always have snacks which is good. It’s just a good place to hang out.
“If you haven’t heard of the Hub it’s ok. It’s not scary, just come and have fun.”
