Jo Bassett

Community Engagement co-ordinator

When people ask me if I like my job my answer, “absolutely!” How could I not when a big part of my role is supporting over 30 young passionate people who have something to say on youth mental health make things happen.  I co-ordinate the youth reference groups for the headspace centres – Woolloongabba, Nundah, Ipswich and Meadowbrook.

Another question I get asked is “what is a youth reference group?”

The YRG is made up of 12 - 15 young people aged 16 – 25 years passionate about mental health and well-being. As a group they

• Have a say into the services that headspace services, and local community and mental health services that support youth.
• Develop leadership skills and gain experience in media, marketing, communication and advocacy skills.
• lead and be involved in local community projects
• Increase understanding of mental health and getting help

February and March have been a busy time in recruiting and interviewing people who applied to join their local reference groups.  We have kicked off the year (in-between going back to school, university and beginning new careers) with time to come together, welcoming back faces who have been involved in the group before and greeting new members who are joining our groups for the first time.   We have already started to share a vision, set goals and objectives, formed project teams and be involved in community events and presentations. 

The members of the youth reference group and I are always keen to hear from enthusiastic young people who are interested.  If that is you or someone you know

text me at 0419 020 873

email me;   jo.bassett@aftercare.com.au

Message me via facebook at HSP Woolloongabba  (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007733807463)