Saying YEP to a job

A NEW employment initiative is being adopted by Headspace’s Ballarat branch which aims to have a more hands-on approach in finding work for young people.

Called the youth employment program, or YEP, the Federally funded initiative will provide people aged 15 to 25 with time-unlimited workplace guidance tailored to their personal needs.

The program has been active at Headspace facilities nationwide for six years, with the local branch having launched in August last year.

Sam Wills, one of Ballarat Headspace’s two youth vocational specialists, said he was excited about the the program.

“I first heard about it two years ago at a youth pathways forum,” he said.

“I was so impressed by the program with just how flexibly it could deliver individual attention to job seekers.”

The YEP initiative prioritises an “individualised approach” to employment, emphasising relationship-building and mental health.

“We develop their interests through exploring the job they’re interested in as well as the education pathways that will be required,” Mr Wills said.

“People also have personal lives and experiences that have impacted them, and the mental health treatment aspect means that each young person is supported the entire time.”

Through YEP, Headspace aims link job seekers with potential employers, and personalised strategies will be used to assist with placement, education and further employment opportunities.

After six months of development, Mr Wills said that Headspace Ballarat is ready to put the word out that the program is available for those seeking work.

“Regardless of what’s happening with someone in their life, if they’re ready and keen to work then we stand ready to welcome them to the program,” he said.

For more information, visit headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/ballarat/yep.