#RUOKDay was trending on popular social media platforms last week as the nation took up the movement to reach out and make what could be the first step in preventing a tragedy.
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As organisations across the state focus on community outreach programs in the wake of World Suicide Prevention Day and Child Protection week, the Tenterfield Community Hub and Social Development Committee (TSDC) came on board in a renewed push to offer young locals a helping hand.
For Gail Galloway at the Community Hub, child protection is everyone’s business and she said it is time to bring the issues that affect young people into the spotlight.
“It’s about highlighting the issues that for many years have been pushed under the carpet,” Ms Galloway said.
The Hub and TSDC undertake numerous programs in the community targeted at early intervention and providing comprehensive support for young people at a crucial point in their life.
“We are the big connecting point.
“The Hub is about drawing attention to services that are available,” she said.
Gail said for some young people in rural and regional areas the stress and demand of making their way in the world can often become overwhelming.
She believes there is a distinct relationship between early intervention and finding positive avenues to help young people find their feet.
“Child protection is key to our services role,” she said.
Tenterfield Youth and Family Support Services, Indigenous Family Links and Bright Access have each set up initiatives to lessen the burden for struggling individuals.
“I think what is good about this community is we all know everyone,” she said.
In recent months, the Community Hub and TSDC have made headway in addressing youth issues with homework groups and girls’ social clubs providing avenues for connecting young people with the support services available.
Their biggest stumbling block has been the fact that many are unaware of the support that is on offer.
“We have people on the ground but a lot of people don’t know where to go for help,” Gail said.
For youth and family support worker Karen Mooney, early intervention is paramount.
“It is so important. Not everyone’s life is going to end up as the white house with the picket fence or anything, but for some that early intervention is crucial,” she said.
Karen said, in smaller communities, the challenge for young people to find ample employment is one of the principle issues affecting many. Nonetheless, she said providing support is about thinking outside the square.
“It is a bit hard, but you try and do what you can, I mean you just have to think outside that square,” she said.
“We get a lot of support from the community. I have found that if someone needed something, even like towels and sheets, if someone was moving into a home and they didn’t have anything. Often we have gone to our own cupboards.”
Addressing youth issues and providing a connection to support services across the community, the Hub operate on Rouse Street and the TSDC office is open for business on Manners Street.