25 August 2010

In a ceremony at Catholic Health Australia’s (CHA) National Conference in Adelaide on Tuesday 24th August, CHA Chief Executive Officer Martin Laverty presented the award to Mr Stephen Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of St John of God Hospital, Geelong and Ms Josie Taylor, Youth Drug and Alcohol Outreach Co-ordinator from Barwon Youth.

The Youth Engagement Program, operated in partnership by St John of God Hospital Geelong and Barwon Youth, focuses on supporting young people in the south west region of Victoria who are experiencing problems with alcohol and other drugs in order to lessen alcohol and drug related harm.

Youth workers engage with vulnerable young people in their own environment where they are most comfortable and link them with agencies that can provide additional treatment as required. The program also offers a safe place for young people who have complex health and social needs to access showers and meals, nursing staff, and screening, assessment and referral to accommodation and other health services.

“We are extremely proud of our outreach work in Geelong. The partnership between Barwon Youth and our hospital makes a significant difference in young people’s lives in the region and we are honoured that it has been acknowledged in this way,” said Mr Roberts.

St John of God Health Care’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Michael Stanford said it was gratifying to have this partnership recognised among fellow Catholic health care organisations.

“Effective collaborative partnerships are increasingly important in today’s environment in order to overcome challenges and meet community need,” Dr Stanford said. “Many of our outreach services have successfully developed partnerships and alliances with other like minded agencies, the government or the private sector. Having such a partnership commended through this award is a fantastic tribute to all involved.”

The Youth Engagement Program is part of St John of God Health Care’s Social Outreach and Advocacy services, which aim to reach out to people experiencing disadvantage to improve health and wellbeing.

CHA’s Outreach Healthcare Award honours a CHA member organisation that has demonstrated its commitment to the healing ministry of Jesus through the development and delivery of innovative services devoted to improving the health status of the vulnerable and marginalised.