Projects to Boost Youth Wellbeing Announced

Gosford High School’s ConnectED Program is among the latest batch of successful projects announced under the NSW Government’s Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast Adam Crouch said the projects will help support recovery and boost resilience for young people in the region following the impacts of natural disasters and COVID-19.

“I’m thrilled to announce additional support for this fantastic project, that will undoubtly help young people in our community bounce back stronger than ever in the wake of COVID-19 disruptions and natural disasters,” Mr Crouch said.

“Projects like Gosford High School’s ConnectED Program is a great example of how we can help young people recover, build resilience and improve wellbeing by providing them with the tools and resources they need to become the best version of themselves.

“Gosford High School will engage a variety of external supports that promote a strength-based approach to fostering education around mental health, wellbeing, resilience and developing respectful relationships.

“Collaborating with support networks including Consent Labs and Regional Youth Support Services (RYSS), the program would provide students in the Gosford area with updated knowledge and a tool kit that is consistent across the whole community.”

Minister for Regional Youth Ben Franklin said the $10.3 million Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative offers large grants between $10,000 and $50,000 and small grants for up to $10,000.

“The large grants fund projects such as community events, peer support groups, cultural connection or partnership programs, while small grants are to enable initiatives like sporting programs and barbecues,” Mr Franklin said.

“Our Regional Youth Community Coordinators will help connect young people with the projects that best support their wellbeing and recovery and foster resilience and connection.”

The Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery Initiative is funded through the NSW COVID-19 Economic Recovery Initiative and the co-funded NSW and Australian Governments’ Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply for funding for wellbeing programs, events and resources as part of the initiative.

Applications for both large and smaller grants are open now and close on 31 December 2022, or when fully allocated. For program and eligibility guidelines, visit nsw.gov.au/YouthWellbeing.