Our youth don’t just need a bed for the night. They deserve a safe place to live, a hub for learning, a place to relax and somewhere to engage with peers that support them.

In our national crisis of family dysfunction, our youth continue to need suitable, sustainable and secure accommodation so they can learn to live independent, happy and fulfilled lives. A secure home allows them to continue and complete their education, engage in healthy activities and supportive relationships.

Whether they are displaced by choice, tragedy or circumstance, their lives become a whirlwind in which they are now have to practically deal with looking after themselves. Some youths need time out of a toxic environment whilst others need a fresh start altogether.

The biggest risk to our Youth right now is mental health. The feeling they belong in this life, that they are connected to their community and that they are valued and cared about. At such a young age they need opportunities to learn and thrive, second chances and encouragement. They need time to readjust to their environment and evaluate their self worth. In finding a place where they feel supported through their pain and anger with people who acknowledge and understand what impact abuse, abandonment, neglect and isolation homeless youth can overcome the challenges.

Even for most adults life is a challenge. In speaking with Brooke from Project Youth in Miranda ‘We are helping young people in all kinds of difficult situations. Our first concern is their safety. We help them find safe, affordable accommodation and a place to call home.’

What does this look like?

Portico Services knows this landscape well, Director and Interior Designer, Annette has been creating the space for our displaced youth. In just one day, Annette and her team pull weeks of research and orders together and then build furniture, install furnishings and set up rooms that welcome its’ newest resident with open arms.

‘I just want them to feel like they matter, and it’s the little things that make a difference. We are mindful and work with youth services to maximise their budget and turn the project around in time.’

Annette works with Australian manufacturers that has given her extraordinary results. Her suppliers understands the work she does and ‘they are so helpful and reliable.’

Youth housing is not just somewhere to stay, it’s somewhere to build a life. Build self esteem, life skills, an opportunity to socialise with others in the same position and find the support they need from mentors and peers. There are indicators and the Early Intervention Programs for high schools help identify those young people at risk. In particular, youth who are disengaged from school and on the verge of suspension or being expelled, we know that this behavior often comes from outside school. It’s organisations, like Project Youth, that also offer other services to families and co-ordinate with companies for work placement to help our young people find themselves.

Annette has recently had a special project where she was asked to fit out a premises for a teenager who was expecting her first child. ‘The fit out catered for all her furniture and fittings and we were able to find local services, who provided a pram, cot, clothing and toys for her baby. There are some amazing people out there doing great work in supporting those who need it. I’m proud to be apart of that.’ Says Annette.

Portico Services is the practical help factor in homelessness as homeless young people are less likely to stay engaged with school, find jobs, get access to rental housing and maintain friendships. They are more likely to experience depression, poor nutrition, substance abuse and mental health problems. In fact, without the right support, many will struggle with homelessness their entire lives. “Stable and secure housing is a core human right and basic need”. – St Vincent De Paul Society.