Services for Young People

Young People Leaving Care Program

The program is for young people aged 17-21 who are at risk of becoming homeless and leaving DHS Protective Services Care. The young person must be in receipt of an income, be willing to participate in the program/support meetings and have a need to develop independent living skills.The purpose of the program is to facilitate a smooth transition from protective services care to independence and reduce the likelihood of future homelessness.

The program has two components - Intensive support and assistance to develop skills for independent living, formulate goals and obtain long term secure housing. The second component is Transitional Housing for a term of 6-12 months. All properties are furnished and close to public transport.

The young person is required to pay rent 25% of income (if under 18 year of age $15 per week) as well as utilities.

What is provided:
• Intensive support and assistance to:
» Develop skills for independent living
» Formulate goals
» Obtain secure housing
• Transitional housing
» For 6 –12 months
» All properties provided with household goods and bedding
» Properties are close to public transport
» Rent is set at 25% of income ($15 under 18 years)

What is the purpose:
The program is designed to facilitate a smooth transition from Protective Services care to independence. Its purpose is:

• To assist young people to develop the skills needed to
manage independent living and
• To reduce the likelihood of future homelessness

Who is eligible:
• Young people aged 17 to 21 years
• At risk of homelessness
• Leaving DHS Protective Services Care order
• Willing to participate in the support program
• Needing to develop living skills
• In receipt of an independent income
• Capacity to live with outreach support
• Want to live in the West

What it involves:
• Support meetings and phone contact with the support worker
• A commitment to participation in the program
• Maintaining tenancy of transitional housing property

How to get into the program:
• Referrals are received from Western DHS Protective Services

For more information:
Mark on 8327 2222
mark@wombat.org.au
raymond@wombat.org.au
tess@wombat.org.au