A headspace Work and Study digital world-first

A world-first, digital work and study service has been launched by headspace.

The headspace Digital Work and Study service is aimed at early school leavers, young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and young people in regional areas. 

The service will support young people on a journey of finding and navigating a career path, or working towards further education, which can greatly improve their mental health and wellbeing.                                                  

headspace data has shown a direct connection between mental health issues and unemployment. 

Funded by the Department of Employment under the Empowering Youth Initiative Grant, the program will initially target regional areas around the country including Gippsland, Riverland, Gladstone and Rockhampton, Northern Tasmania and Southern Western Australia.

headspace Work and study specialists will be able to assist young people with resumes, career planning and job searching, as well as exploring suitable education and training options.

headspace Vocational Services Manager Carolyn Watts said many young people struggle to find work or study opportunities, particularly in regional areas.

“Over the past 12 months, almost one in three young people aged 17-25 accessing headspace in a regional area for the first time, were disengaged from both work and study,” said Ms Watts.

“This figure is well below the current national youth unemployment rate of 12.7 % and demonstrates a need for holistic work and study services to support vulnerable young people with mental health difficulties across regional Australia.

“Our program has been designed to bring one-on-one support across all aspects of work and study into the homes of young Australians via web chat, video conferencing, email or phone,” Ms Watts said.

“Whether a young person is looking for a job, confused over their study options or struggling in a current job they can use the Work and Study service to assist in achieving their goals.”

“Engaging in work or study is good for your mental health,” Ms Watts said.

“Not only does it provide structure and routine to daily life, it brings a sense of purpose and responsibility for young people and improves self-confidence.”

The service is voluntary for young people to sign-up to and is also integrated with clinical care to ensure that the young person is fully supported through a time of significant change.

headspace Interim CEO Matt Posar said there was an urgent need for the program to support young people who may not have access to face-to-face assistance for work and study concerns.

“We are proud to be launching this exciting and innovative program. This will be an extremely valuable tool to help vulnerable young people seeking vocational help,” he said.

To access the Digital Work and Study program visit: www.digitalworkandstudy.org.au or phone 1800 810 794.