News

Recent discussions across Australian media outlets about youth education have highlighted significant developments in alternative schooling options and creating flexible, inclusive spaces aimed at improving engagement for young people. In Melbourne, there is a growing interest in alternative schools that cater to students who face challenges in mainstream classrooms. The Y’s new Community School in […]

Tips for Parents from Y Whittlesea Community School School refusal is a challenging issue faced by many families, impacting not just the child’s education but also their overall well-being. At Y Community School, we recognise the importance of addressing this issue with empathy and understanding. In this article, we’ll delve into what school refusal is […]

Y Whittlesea, a leading youth organisation dedicated to the holistic development of young people, are proud to announce that we are in the final stages of obtaining a school registration for an independent Community School. A new initiative for the Y in Victoria, the school is tailored for young people disengaged from traditional school models, […]

Anzac Day holds a special place in the hearts of Australians and New Zealanders, serving as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by brave service personnel. Amidst the ceremonies and tributes, one symbol stands out prominently—the red poppy. Millions wear a poppy on Anzac Day, but the ritual dates back to a poignant moment [...]

At Y Inclusion Services, our philosophy lies at the core of our mission. We are a passionate organisation delivering truly person-centred support, services and programs. These are designed to foster personal growth and empower for people with a disability to achieve their goals and empower them to lead dignified lives. Y Inclusion Services offers a […]

Nominations are now open for the inaugural Victorian Mother of the Year award. The initiative celebrates the contribution mums make every day, seeking to spotlight the broader aspects of motherhood that inspire, nurture and redefine modern parenting. The Y Mother of the Year is a new perspective on recognising inspiring mothers. The Victorian Mother of […]

As we commence Harmony Week (March 18-24th) with the theme Everyone belongs, it's a time for reflection and celebration of diversity and inclusion. At the Y Inclusion Services, we wholeheartedly believe that everyone deserves a place where they belong, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances. Harmony Week aligns closely with our global mission: The [...]

1. Create a Resume Summarise your education, skills, and any relevant experiences (even if they're not job-related, such as volunteer work or school projects). 2. Cover letter Write a brief cover letter explaining why you're interested in the job and how your skills match the position. 3. Professional email address Use a professional email address [...]

1. Research the company Gain a solid understanding of the company's history, values, culture, products, and recent news. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses to align with the company's goals and demonstrate your genuine interest. 2. Understand the job description Analyze the job description carefully to identify the key skills and qualifications required. [...]

Hey there! You're about to embark on an exciting journey into the world of work, and you want to make sure you stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs. Here are five key strategies to help you shine: 1. 🚀 Maximize career opportunities You're not just looking for a job; you're seeking a [...]

We are absolutely delighted to share with you our inspiring experiences from the recent VALID Conference. This event stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the determination of all individuals with a disability to be part of such a unique and empowering community. Hosted in Geelong, the ‘Having a Say’ conference is the largest conference for […]

A circle of support involves a group of people coming together to help formulate, promote and support the goals of a person with disability. The circle acts as a community of friendship and support around the person at the centre. Inclusion Services at the Y can be an extremely important part of your circle of support. [...]

Safer Internet Day, observed annually on February 6th, is a global initiative that aims to raise awareness about online safety issues and promote the responsible and safe use of digital technology. Connect. Reflect. Protect At the Y, we understand that Safer Internet Day holds particular significance for young people and families, as we navigate the […]

Are you yearning to take the next step in your career, whether it’s advancing within your current sector or exploring new horizons and opportunities? Here are the top five tips to help you soar in your career.

Did you know that the YMCA was the birthplace of the invention of Basketball? Yep! On this day, 112 years ago, a YMCA fitness instructor, James Naismith, invented the game. A Canadian farm boy, James Naismith developed the game at the YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts! Inspired by the need for an indoor activity during winter, […]

Figuring out Together is brought to you by a group of young people who have conversations about real issues that affect them and other young people in the community.  The group was established out of the Young Women’s Leadership Program, where the idea of sharing issues from a young persons perspective began. The group aims to engage in meaningful social […]

Edward is a new participant to our Inclusion camps. In August, he joined us for our Mount Evelyn camp and displayed courtesy and respect for everyone around him – earning him a reputation as a true gentleman! Some of the younger participants even gravitated towards his kind personality. As the day came to an end, […]

Rob is one of our newer Camp Participants. Originally being on our Wrap program, he has ventured on to our respite camps and has so far completed two of them. He says that he can’t wait to be a part of many more camps as he loves participating in all of the activities. Rob gives […]

Negative thoughts may fester and stop you going for promotions, friendships, relationships, adventures and opportunities. They can stunt personal growth, cause us to make bad decisions, and drive us to become the worst versions of ourselves. They can warp our perception of experiences and even cause us physical and mental damage, feeding mood and anxiety disorders. […]

Our final pillar of our Safeguarding Framework is Environment. We commit to creating safe environments and spaces for Children and Young People at the Y. Our Commitment to creating a Safeguarding Environment comprise of: eSafety Physical Families and communities Diversity To view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy click here.

As part of our Safeguarding Framework we commit to creating safe operations to ensure Y People have the right policies, processes and practices to keep Children and Young People safe. Our Commitment to creating a Safeguarding Operations comprise of: People Policies and Procedures Practices Complaints To view our Safeguarding Children and Young People Policy click here.

The first pillar of our Safeguarding Framework is Culture. We are committed to creating a safe culture that empowers Children and Young People and promotes intergenerational leadership and governance to embed Safeguarding at the Y. Our commitment to achieving a Safeguarding Culture comprises of: Leadership Governance Empowerment Values and Behaviours Education and Training Continuous Improvements […]

To achieve our Safeguarding Vision, we have developed our Safeguarding Framework. At the heart of our Safeguarding Framework is our Safeguarding Vision, to ‘feel safe, be safe’. Our Safeguarding Vision stands on three Pillars: Culture Operations Environment These Pillars are comprised of 15 elements that enable our Y People to understand how Safeguarding directly relates […]

At the Y Whittlesea, the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children, young people and vulnerable adults is our highest priority. The right to be able to enjoy a safe environment free from threats, abuse, neglect or exploitation is our service commitment. We work hard to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people is embedded […]

Crystal is a young lady who has been accessing various services with the Y for many years, including 1:1 support, social groups and Support Coordination. Up until recently Crystal has been living in a unit at the rear of her family home. Along with her support coordinator, steps were put in place to begin the […]

Chelsea’s mum Gabby called us at the start of August quite distressed as they were having issues with Chelsea at home. She explained that Chelsea was becoming aggressive and violent more often towards all the family members in the home including her younger 8-year-old brother. Since Chelsea is unable to go to school, her routine […]

The Y Whittlesea team is growing! Want to work for a values based organisation in the local community? We currently have lots of job opportunities including: ▪️ Early Childhood and Family Inclusion Support Coordinator ▪️ Disability Camp Support Worker ▪️ Home and Community Support Worker ▪️ Disability Services Program Coordinator ▪️ Early Childhood Educator (Assistant […]

Below are resources for our community to use in order to get emergency food relief. Please visit the relevant sites linked below for any further information on that service. Whittlesea Food Share is open on Tuesday 12-3pm and Wednesday 11am – 2pm – Contact details – Whittlesea Council Call Encompass Care Vic on 0422 461 […]

Vaccination centre for people living with a disability  A vaccination centre specifically for people living with a disability, and staff who care for them in their homes, is now open. Eligibility:   People living within supported accommodation and the support staff for those facilities  If there are 2 or more people living with a disability at a single […]

The story of the young person behind the Y’s national ‘Inside Our Minds’ campaign

Staying active in your 50’s and beyond can be the best gift you give to yourself and those around you. Exercise can enhance your energy levels, keep you at a healthy weight, and even possibly reduce some of the symptoms associated with ageing. Exercise can be good for your brain and emotional state as well […]

Mental health support and information Beyond Blue Coronavirus support  Head to Health COVID support Lifeline  Black Dog Institute Youth Mental health support and information  Youth Beyond Blue  Kids Helpline  Headspace  Reach Out  Mindfulness and Mediation Apps Wellbeing apps that can assist with mindfulness and meditation practice. Here are some recommendations to explore: Smiling Mind – Guided mediations […]

What is Mindfulness by Laura Eason (Y NSW) At times, we all struggle to stay present. This becomes even more common during stressful times, like many of us may now find ourselves in. This article will cover some information about the benefits of mindfulness, how to get started, and what to do if you’re struggling […]