Youth engagement initiatives have proved to be a hit at PCYC Cairns, empowering local youth and supporting survivors of domestic and family violence through a wide range of programs such as After Dark, Blue Edge and RUBY (Rise Up, Be Yourself).
Since January, around 25 youths between the ages of 12 and 18 have been attending free weekly After Dark sessions, where they can participate in a variety of sporting activities including basketball, boxing, touch footy and more.
Youth Club Coordinator and Programs Manager, Sergeant Kelly Chamberlain said the positive outcomes of After Dark had resulted in a noticeable improvement in the kids’ behaviour.
“These programs offer a safe haven for kids to learn and grow, and promote positive social interactions through structured activities, guidance and connection,” said Sergeant Chamberlain.
Sergeant Chamberlain also conducts weekly strength and wellbeing sessions to support survivors of domestic and family violence through program RUBY, a free physical fitness program held at a number of PCYCs across Queensland.
“It is vital that we recognise the importance of supporting survivors of domestic and family violence and providing a violence free and safe environment for women to exercise and feel confident,” said Sergeant Chamberlain.
The program’s success is reflected in the increasing number of referrals received each week.
Initiative Blue EDGE continues to grow in popularity, engaging young people in QPS fitness testing, sports and games and guest speakers. Funded under the Youth Development Partnership Fund, Blue EDGE is a school-based physical training program for 12-17 year olds, boosting mental and physical capabilities over 8 weeks and is being run across Queensland, targeting areas with police presence and need.
It is currently being delivered to schools in Cairns West and Trinity Bay four times a week.
Sergeant Chamberlain has expressed her desire to further develop youth programs in the area.
“The team and I already have more programs in the planning stage and are always seeking additional support to facilitate these highly valuable programs.”
The $4 million Youth Development Partnership Fund, a joint initiative between the Department of Tourism and Sport and the Queensland Police Service, aims to empower at-risk youth through sport and active recreation learning activities, fostering personal growth and development.
Funding supports programs that deliver transformational positive impact on local communities and their youth, across Queensland.
For further information, please visit the Youth Development Partnership Fund.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to police.
Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:
- DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636
- 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
More information is also available from the Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence portal.
