Designed to help the ACT’s at-risk youth, the University of Canberra’s (UC) Pathways program (formerly known as the WOKE program) has received a crucial funding injection to meet growing demand.
$1.4 million has been provided by the ACT Government in a four-year funding deal described by the program’s director, Dr Dean Buckmaster, as a “game changer”.
The 14-week early intervention program treats young people aged 15 to 21 with multiple social and emotional difficulties, giving them access to a comprehensive program designed specifically for their needs.
The program offers evidence-based treatment through individual therapy, a weekly skills training group, and a unique system of support that empowers the family or carers of the young person with the skills and understanding to support their needs.
“Young people graduate from the program with improved educational, social, and emotional functioning, and parents report that they feel valued as co-participants in their young person’s treatment,” Dr Buckmaster said.
“When everyone feels they are on the same page, and they understand both the symptoms of the condition and healthy management strategies, it leads to better outcomes for the whole family unit.”
Since 2019, 176 young people and 152 parents have successfully completed the program – despite the service only operating in a part-time capacity. Through this funding injection, the Pathways team will now prepare to expand their offerings and reach more clients in need.
“This funding is a game changer for at-risk youth and their families. We can now provide certainty to clients, parents, and referrers who need access to the program, and provide job security for the staff who make it all possible,” Dr Buckmaster said.
“We will be able to expand the program from 14 to 16 weeks, run additional parent sessions and offer a Graduate Program to provide ongoing support for our clients to maintain the gains they’ve made through their treatment."
While the new funding deal marks a significant investment for youth mental health service delivery in the ACT, it will also contribute to the development of the mental health workforce in the ACT.
Over 70 of UC’s Master of Clinical Psychology students completed their compulsory placements through the program, many even travelling from interstate to get experience in this unique program.
“While the program is designed to fill a mental health service gap in our community, it’s also one of the most unique and valuable training opportunities available for our students,” Dr Buckmaster said.
“We train our students in comprehensive multi-modal, evidence-based treatment before providing an integrated placement, training and treatment program, embedding our students in the community long before graduation.”
University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor The Honourable Bill Shorten, commended the hard work of the team and their dedication to the program and its participants.
“I don’t think there is a more important issue for young people today than mental health, and I am sure every parent would agree,” Professor Shorten said.
“Universities have an important role to play in advocating for young Australians and the Pathways program highlights UC’s commitment to the ACT and region.
“We have an important role to play here in shaping the health outcomes of our community, through preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals with a high-quality and hands-on education. This program is a great example of how students can make a committed contribution to our community and a meaningful difference.
“We are very proud of the work this program delivers to support the next generation of young Canberrans and shape the future healthcare workforce of the region.”
ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith recognised the strength of the program and its benefits for the Territory.
“The program’s success reflects the strong commitment of the ACT Government and the University of Canberra in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people across Canberra.
“When young people and their families get support early, it can make a real difference, not just to their mental health now, but to their future goals, relationships and opportunities.”