Express an Interest

Targeting:

Youth Options assists disadvantaged South Australian youth to plan for, engage with, and achieve their work or learning goals. We believe that access to sustainable employment is critical for people to achieve their life aspirations, contribute to society and reach their full potential.  

Nevertheless, people who do NOT have school or post-school qualifications have disproportionately high rates of joblessness; and employment which is erratic, often low-paid and low-skilled. Consequently, they are also more likely to experience financial distress, homelessness, family disruption and social exclusion.  

Our Vision is to create pathways to living a life of purpose. Our mission is to support diverse young South Australians transform their lives by developing the confidence and skills to learn, earn and live. 

Through a person-centred approach Youth Options nurtures trusted partnerships to help each person:   

• Overcome their barriers   

• Open their eyes to their potential   

• Safely shift their self-limiting beliefs/behaviours   

• Access practical pathways, tools/support to explore the future they imagine

Our programs build confidence and skills through activities focused on social and emotional learning, learning ability, skill development, and work preparedness.

Youth Options’ recognises the complexities that many of our service users face, which are identified collectively as highly vulnerable and disadvantaged, with participation reflecting: 

• Indigenous 17% 

• Disability 52% 

• Learning difficulties 51% 

• Mental health concerns 59% 

• Social anxiety 46% 

• Low literacy and numeracy 45% 

• Family dysfunction 38% 

• Bullied at school 28% 

• State Care 15% 

• Domestic violence 6% 

Overall, 72% have >5 of the above complexities, 42% had >10, with a further 14% coping with >15 complexities in their lives. These young people require wraparound supports to maintain their wellbeing, independence and employment.   

Youth Options’ services are delivered from our Sturt Street Youth Hub Adelaide, Twelve25 in Salisbury or via our outreach programs.