Supporting youth employment

A NEW dedicated headspace program will assist young Geelong region residents experiencing mental illness to join the workforce.

Barwon Child Youth and Family will receive $845,000 for Geelong headspace through the federal government’s Individual Placement and Support Program which aims to address barriers preventing people with mental illness from finding and keeping a job.

Senator Sarah Henderson said by integrating educational and workforce support with clinical mental health services, “we can help our young people secure employment opportunities”.

“Mental illness should not be a barrier to pursuing a fulfilling career and the Individual Placement and Support Program will ensure young people have access to the tailored support they need to thrive in any workplace.”

Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the onset of mental illness in young people could significantly affect their ability to transition from study to work.

“This investment will provide local career assistance hand-in-hand with clinical support to help young people with mental illness enter the workforce and reach their full potential,” she said.

The program is expected to be operational by the end of this month.