Program assists youth

Dandenong Leader, 23 May 2016

A SMALL but dedicated program in Dandenong is making great strides in helping young people get their lives back on track.

The intensive support program is part of the Early in Life Mental Health Service at Monash Health in Cleeland St, Dandenong.

It offers a culturally specific drug and alcohol service with intensive case management for people aged 12 to 27 in Greater Dandenong.

Operational manager Claire Manninghall said the program was needed for new and emerging communities in the area.

“We were very aware the Sudanese community in particular had a number of young people who would congregate in public places with high levels of drug and alcohol use,” she said.

With two case workers and a project worker, the small team has done very well, Ms Manninghall said.

“We have engaged many members of the African community, a number of agencies and worked collaboratively with the police and other groups, as well as a number of young people to minimise the harm – not physical, but social aspect of drug and alcohol for youths,” she said.

“Alcohol use and even cigarette smoking is often unacceptable behaviour in many newly arrived communities and this can cause intergenerational conflict in families.

“Families and young people need to know there is somewhere in Dandenong for them to turn to for help.”

For more information please call (03) 9767 8274.

Photo Courtesy Leader Newspapers.