Providing safe spaces for young people

Have you ever paused to consider how life-changing a safe space can be? Looking back on your youth, it’s likely there were trusted adults who became positive role models and made a real impact on your life when it mattered most.

They may have shared small, teachable moments or lessons guiding you towards a more positive path. Now, young people need someone like you in their corner, giving back to the next generation.

You may already be familiar with PCYC Queensland. In your youth, they may have been your safe space where you found that trusted adult, too, because they have been building safer, healthier communities since 1948. Or, like many Queenslanders, you might know of their Gym+Fitness programs, attended their OSHC services as a child, or simply have seen the clubs in communities across Queensland.

It’s not unusual for PCYC team members to hear phrases like, “I love PCYC Queensland”, “I love talking to them [the people delivering our programs]”, or “coming here has changed my life”.

It’s the people delivering PCYC’s free youth programs who develop and support, as well as challenge and inspire, young people right across Queensland. They are creating the safe spaces where young people can connect, socialise and grow.

Without these spaces, programs, and positive mentors delivering them, too many young people can feel overlooked, bored, left to struggle alone, and face risks that could be avoided.

Young people realise their wellbeing comes first at PCYC, and they can reclaim their future freely, not limited by challenges faced beyond the club’s walls.

Program engagements have surged by 34% across PCYC Queensland’s 55 clubs this year, making it even more likely that tonight, a young person somewhere in your community could be stepping into their local club for the first time seeking support.

A young person potentially feeling disconnected, who may be demonstrating antisocial behaviour, struggling at school, at-risk of or already offending, might be reaching out or being referred to a program like After Dark.

After Dark at PCYC Ashmore

Like all PCYC clubs, PCYC Ashmore on the Gold Coast offers youth programs which provide young people with connection, positive mentors and, most importantly, celebrate the individual and recognise what young people are capable of achieving.

At the heart of this work is Acting Sergeant Steve Baxter of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and Youth Club Program Manager at PCYC Ashmore. His week is spent delivering programs that support, encourage, divert, prevent, and intervene when it matters most.

After Dark is a free after-hours sports-based program for young people who may face challenges, including disengagement from school, strained family relationships, and a lack of friends or community connection. Some are simply seeking somewhere safe and friendly to go, to meet new people and be part of an activity.

“There is no typical young person who comes to [After Dark],” says Acting Sergeant Baxter.

“They come from varying backgrounds, they might have difficulties with school or not be attending school.”

Bailey is a young man who regularly attends After Dark boxing at Ashmore.

“My life has changed drastically coming here,” he says,

Bailey was also quick to answer when asked how things would be without the program. “I would be devastated. I love this program.”

He credits Acting Sergeant Baxter and the PCYC program for strengthening his mental wellbeing and social skills, committing to something ongoing, and giving him a sense of purpose.

Behind the scenes

Every day, staff, volunteers, and Queensland Police Officers deliver PCYC’s programs and services.

Krista, an Organisational Practice Leader at PCYC, is one of these team members who ensures that PCYC programs are high-quality and evidence based. On-the-ground teams in clubs put the programs into action to create safe spaces and the positive outcomes young people need.

“We’re in a great position to provide positive role modelling for young people who may not have the opportunity to get that from anywhere else,” says Krista. “I see the amazing qualities they bring to society, and I see that they are often written off. Here they have the opportunity to choose a different life for themselves.”

Only with community support can PCYC’s programs and safe spaces continue for young people seeking to build their confidence, mental wellbeing, and social skills to make positive choices. It’s an investment in a young person’s future, for everyone’s.

Please help all young people access the safe space they need when it matters most. Donate now to ensure this continues for future generations.