On 28th March, the Minister for Health and Federal Member for Flinders, Greg Hunt, joined some of the Jimmy’s/YPYS community to announce a 1.2 million dollar funding commitment over three years, in support of the YPYS service in Jimmy’s Youth Wellbeing Sanctuary.
“We know that one in four young Australians will experience some form of mental health challenge each year. Groups like the YPYS are there to listen to your concerns and help you get on the right track to improved mental health, ” Minister Hunt said.
While charitable donations via Jimmy’s Foundation have already financed the build of the new premises, the federal funding will provide the YPYS an opportunity to expand on the current suite of programs, have an impact on a larger demographic of young people, as well as offering increased access and hours of operation. It is a support model, which includes strong intervention and prevention practices, specifically relating to early signs and symptoms of mental and physical health problems in young people.
“When I’m here, I actually have a family. I feel safe, not just physically safe but emotionally safe,” says Jake, who first joined YPYS programs when he was 12. Now 20, he has attended the YPYS program for eight years.
The Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, is proud to be supporting improved mental health of young Australians.