The Federal Government has developed a new support program for our local youth kicking off as off the 1st of January this year and BGT is delighted to announce their success in securing the funding to deliver the new ‘Youth Connections’ program.

Youth Connections will provide an individualised service for young people most at risk of disengaging from either education or training. Melissa Sizeland, Youth Connections Manager commented, “By assisting to support these young people attain a qualification and help them transition through education into further study, or employment we will provide a structure for them to succeed and become a valuable asset to our community.”

The BGT Youth Connections Program will focus on the 13 – 19 year age group identified as being at risk either from disengaging from education, family or the community. Ms Sizeland said “We will be providing case management for each individual with one on one assistance, group programs, mentoring, advocacy, referrals to specialist services and youth outreach activities.”

Youth Connections has replaced the previous Youth Pathways program run by BGT and incorporates strategic local partners in Lead On and BEST Community Development. Lead On will be providing a mentoring program for the disengaged youth and BEST Community Development will participate in engaging young people with training activities as required. Sarah-Kate Brusey, Manager Lead On commented that “this partnership will strengthen and provide more options for the disengaged young people in Ballarat and surrounding regions.”

Young people can participate in Youth Connections to satisfy obligations relating to the receipt of income support from Centrelink.

BGT will run the Youth Connections program in Ballarat and Western Regions including Ararat, Stawell, Horsham, Daylesford and Bacchus Marsh with staff at each location providing support.

BGT provides opportunities for local youth whether that is an apprenticeship, traineeship, training or educational support services. BGT are dedicated to the community and provide support services for the young people in their quest to achieve their goals.