Male youths lose their support crew

Susanna Freymark

Funding has ended for two male youth worker positions in Evans Head.

The positions were funded by the Federal Government’s Safer Communities program.

The Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre manager was contacted several times for comment about the funding but we have not yet received any response.

On the youth service’s Facebook page, the issue of losing two male youth workers was addressed.

“We have found that there has been some confusion about the youth service and the supports we have available for the young people in the community.

 “Unfortunately, we have had to say goodbye to Josh, Toby and the Mobile Youth Van service, this decision was not ours, the program was sadly no longer funded.”

A spokesperson from the Department of Home Affairs said grant applications received as part of Safer Communities Fund Round Six: Early Intervention were assessed on a competitive basis and were recommended for funding in order of merit.

Unfortunately, the youth worker positions at MRNC were not selected.

The MRNC has asked for feedback on their unsuccessful application and a meeting between the Mid Richmond Neighbourhood Centre and the Business Grants Hub has been scheduled.

The neighbourhood centre in Evans Head still has two female youth workers.

An earlier version of this story has been removed because of personal sensitivities.