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Providing Services to Homeless Young People in Melbourne

NCJ Number
192242
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 20 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2001 Pages: 26-33
Author(s)
Shelley Mallett; Doreen Rosenthal; Paul Myers
Editor(s)
Sheila Allison
Date Published
December 2001
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper presents findings from a survey of service providers working in youth services across metropolitan Melbourne, Australia that have contact with homeless young people and describes the homeless work force, the services provided to the homeless young people, and the personal and structural factors that hinder service delivery.
Abstract
Thousands of young people ages 12- to 24-years-old experience homelessness each year in Australia. Once these young people are homeless, they risk further social and economic marginalization and exclusion. A survey was conducted of youth service providers in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia that have regular contact with homeless young people. It was conducted in 2000 and represented the first component of a larger, multifaceted study of homeless young people and service provision in Melbourne and Los Angeles. Survey results revealed a relatively stable, experienced, and well-educated work force. The most commonly provided services to young people were case management and counseling. The services most commonly sought out by homeless young people were housing, income support, material aid, and general support. The most significant issues identified for service providers and service delivery were inadequate funding and lack of resources. Tables and references