This report was published by Thrive International and commissioned by the Department of Communities and Justice, Government of New South Wales, Australia.

HERE’S HOW THE AUTHORS DESCRIBE THIS REPORT:

This report conducts an assessment of the key tenets of successful programs in 8 Youth Action member organizations working in a diverse range of contexts with young people.

Key Findings:

• A quick response time (24-48 hours) to requests (youth said that this made them feel respected).
• Safe and inclusive spaces and providing a sense of belonging.
• Workers who are calm, approachable, open-minded, and non-judgmental.
• Practical supports, including providing food and assisting youth with navigating governmental systems, filling out forms, and assistance with employment.

Feedback from staff from the organizations indicated the following approaches to be successful:

• Open door policy, learning environment, not fearful of failure.
• Client-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed, wellbeing frameworks, and culturally-safe.