8 March 2017
CEO message
Two months into my new role at Youngcare, it’s fantastic to be writing for my first Y News!
There are exciting times ahead in 2017 as Youngcare moves into its next crucial phase to liberate the 700,000 young people currently living in, or at risk of entering aged care.
Right now, Australia is facing a severe shortage of appropriate housing for young people with high care needs. The roll-out of the National Disability Insurance Scheme is changing the disability sector forever , and it’s more critical than ever to unite the community in the crusade to solve the youth disability residential crisis once and for all.
It was a great way to bring in the new year, having the pleasure of sitting on the panel for the inaugural At Home Care Grants South Australia, proudly supported by AAMI. That day, 17 deserving young people were given the vital funds needed to remain at home with their loved ones and avoid admission into aged care. A further four young people received a Home Soon Grant, proudly supported by Suncorp Insurance, enabling them to exit aged care and transition back into the community – a fantastic result
In a few months’ time, I will be pulling on my hiking boots and joining a bunch of dedicated Youngcare supporters to walk 250km across the Simpson Desert, to help bring Youngcare’s re-invigorated vision to life. For eight days we’ll each carry a 10kg backpack and be completely exposed to the elements. Such an isolated environment, where there is very little choice over your own actions, provides a striking reflection of the challenges often faced by young people with high care needs on a daily basis – a true test of both physical and mental endurance. (What have I signed myself up for?!)
There’s heaps coming up over the next couple of months, so make sure you check out the events page and find out how you can get involved!
I can’t wait for the adventures that lay ahead, as we work together to ensure that no young person has to wake up each day in aged care.
Best wishes,
Anthony Ryan, Chief Executive Officer
