Kids Help Line newsletter
This e-newsletter explores issues of concern and provides information on a range of topics.
For more information or to download a copy, follow the link 'info about KHL' on the Kids Help Line website.
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
My friend is gay - resource kit
This is a resource for young people who have a peer or friend that identifies as same-sex attracted. Although this is targeted at friends and peers of same-sex attracted youth (SSAY); SSAY themselves, teachers, siblings and parents will also benefit from this free resource.
The resource kit will:
- Prepare young people to deal with a friend's coming out, with sensitivity, knowledge and a supportive approach
- Encourage peer support
- Help alleviate the anxieties young people have when questioning their sexuality
- Provide support and information to peers/friends of SSAY
The kit also contains terms, general information, practical advice, education and useful websites.
For more information or to get a copy phone Tina on 9561 7359.
Family Separation: A guide for teens
Around 11,000 teenagers experience family separation in Australia each year. The Federal Government's Child Support Agency (CSA) knows that separation can be a challenge for teenagers. So they've worked with a range of people to create the Family Separation: A guide for teens
The website is broken down into sections including:
- Emotions - About common emotions and how to deal with them
- Wellbeing - With tips on taking care of yourself during separation
- Coping Strategies - Ways that friends, teachers and school counsellors can all help
- Friends - How your own relationships can help you
- Change - Looking at what will change and what will stay the same
- What now - About living with your family after the separation
- Your rights - With info on your basic human rights and legal rights you should know about
- More information - A reference guide to key support services
If you're experiencing family separation, or you know of someone who is visit the Family Separation: A guide for teens website.
Siblings of children with a disability: SiBsheets
The Association for Children with a Disability (ACD) has recently reprinted the popular sibling factsheets, SiBsheets, thanks to a grant from the Myer Foundation. Copies are available free of charge.
The experience of growing up with a sibling with a disability is quite unique and all siblings can benefit from greater understanding and guidance.
ACD has a series of factsheets known as SiBsheets. One is aimed at parents, one at SiBs and one at the community. The SiBsheets are available free of charge to all families, schools and organisations offering support to siblings.
For more information or request copies phone ACD office 9818 2000 or 1800 654 013 (rural callers), or email Sibling Worker, Gemma Holleran.
View the SiBsheets online at the ACD website.
Youth On Edge
Currently, families, children and young people in the City of Whittlesea are disadvantaged in relation to the provision of local human services. In addition, like other Interface Councils, local residents are geographically isolated from service centres and current service provision is not keeping pace with population growth and demand. Increased State Government investment in social infrastructure and program delivery is essential to achieve a basic level of service provision.
The nine Interface Councils – Nillumbik, Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mornington Peninsula, Whittlesea, Wyndham and Yarra Ranges – have initiated a ‘Youth on the Edge’ campaign to raise awareness of the issues and to advocate for funding for increased youth services across our municipalities.
The Interface Councils are seeking to have these needs addressed through the development of a locally based comprehensive, coordinated service system that enables continuity of care and responds to the range of needs of young people and their families. An appropriate service system is essential if growing communities are to be resilient and able to support young people and their families.
If you would like a copy of the Youth on the Edge Brochure, fact sheets or DVD you may download it from the Youth on Edge website on the City of Whittlesea website or phone Community Services on 9217 2201.
Parenting Children and teenagers affected by bushfire.
A practical parenting program to help you:
- Manage stress and anxiety
- Help your children by gaining skills and confidence
- Support your family’s recovery
This is a six week group program for mothers, fathers and carers of children and teenagers affected by the bushfires early in 2009, and is free of charge.
The program will be available throughout 2010 in bushfire affected areas and other areas across Victoria depending on the level of interest.
First programs commence mid February.
Register today! By registering you will shortly be sent confirmation about the program in your area, including dates and venue information. Childcare available and light refreshments will be provided.
For more information or to register phone 1800 780 720 or visit the Parenting After Bushfire website.
The Line: Website
When it comes to relationships, sometimes there’s a fine line between what’s ok and what’s not. What crosses the line for one person might be perfectly ok for another. And while sometimes the line is crystal clear, other times it’s a bit blurred. It all comes down to respect. Respect for others, and understanding of what crossing the line means to them. And respect for yourself, so you can be clear about where you draw the line. The primary target audience is young people on the cusp or in developing relationships generally aged between 12-20 years.
For more information visit The Line website.
