Banksia Hill Program
For: Children and young people Justice
Available in: Perth Metro
Providing confidential and non-judgemental one-to-one alcohol and drug support and counselling for young people at Banksia Hill Detention Centre and Community Youth Justice Centres in Welshpool, Mirrabooka, Cockburn and Mount Lawley.
About the program
From lived trauma and mental health issues to peer pressure, young people in detention are often vulnerable to a range of factors that can exacerbate substance use.
Our program provides a safe space where young people can discuss their substance use openly and confidentially and access the information, resources, counselling and support they need to:
- understand the effects of drugs and alcohol
- identify, address and manage the factors behind their substance use
- develop coping mechanisms and strategies to manage stress and triggers
- navigate their challenges, take control of their recovery journey and build resilience
- experience a renewed sense of hope and motivation for their future
- make healthier choices and move on after detention.
Our goal is to provide early intervention support that breaks the cycle of addiction and criminal behaviour (recidivism). It’s about preventing long-term addiction and its damaging consequences for individuals and the community and fostering a sense of accountability and empowerment.
How it works
Youth Justice Officers (YJOs) or Case Planners can refer a young person with a history of substance use to Holyoake. One of our counsellors then works with the referrer to set up an initial appointment.
During this appointment, our counsellor conducts a thorough assessment of the young person’s needs, substance use history, mental health status and personal circumstances. We listen with understanding and empathy and without judgement.
Based on this assessment, we develop a personalised counselling plan with the young person, ensuring their voice is heard. We then explain the agreed plan to the referrer, taking care to protect the young person’s personal information.
Our counselling process is personalised – we can tailor the focus and duration of their counselling sessions (sessions are usually 30 to 45 minutes). Moreover, it’s completely confidential. We make this clear to the young people who enter the program.
In this way, and through open communication, we foster a safe, supportive environment where young people can discuss their challenges, experiences and feelings related to substance use.
The Banksia Hill Program is contracted by the Department of Justice. If you’d like to learn more or enter the program, please ask the Transitional Manager at your centre.