Esperance Group Training Scheme to operate new service for disadvantaged

7/4/97

The Esperance Group Training Scheme will operate a new support service to help disadvantaged young people, Family and Children's Services Minister Rhonda Parker announced today.

Mrs Parker said Family and Children's Services would allocate $33,039 a year until December 31, 1999 to the organisation to run the service for young people at risk.

"The service will help young people aged between 12 and 18 years who may be at risk for a variety of reasons and who are isolated from their peers," the Minister said.

"Staff will work individually with each young person providing support, mediation and advocacy on their behalf.

"It will help young people improve their self esteem and confidence and provide them with information on the positive things available for them in the community.

"They will learn life and social skills which will better enable them to deal with or prevent crises in their lives."

Mrs Parker said the service demonstrated Family and Children's Services' commitment to helping young people and the community.

Media contact: Kaye Hopkins on (09) 481 7810