Youth Collective Committee launches Safe Space Project Report

The City of Marion’s Youth Collective Committee has launched its Safe Space Project Report 2022-2026 to inform Council initiatives to improve the physical and mental well-being of local young people.

The report considers feedback from around 150 young people and was written by young people for the decision-makers in the City of Marion.

Compiled by YCC member Anita Chaplain with the support of the Commissioner for Children and Young People SA, Helen Connolly, the report lists five recommendations for the Council, namely to.

• Create systems to mitigate stress by providing more opportunities for young people to engage, access support and learn about mental health and well-being.
• Remove the stigma around mental health.
• Make more resources available that are easier to access.
• Provide support for family and friends of young people experiencing mental health issues.
• Provide equal access and inclusion for all young people in the City of Marion.

Mayor of Marion Kris Hanna attended the YCC report launch with Commissioner Connolly on December 8.

“This a valuable report giving a voice to our young people, particularly about their mental health needs and concerns,” Mayor Hanna said.

“I think the key messages were that young people want safe spaces for recreation and socialising. They also want trusted sources of information about life skills.

“Council will consider the report – perhaps Marion Council’s neighbourhood centres could be part of the solution.”

Anita Chaplain, 23, said the report outlined the importance of mental health support, tailored for young people.

"The report also showcases how informed young people are, and that they have the ideas to create solutions targeted for their community," she said.

"Young people provide mental health support, support others, and want to learn more about this."

More information about the project and the report is available on the City of Marion website.

Photo: YCC member Anita Chaplain and Mayor of Marion Kris Hanna at the launch of the Safe Space Project Report 2022-2026.

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