The Bligh Government has committed more than $3.34 million over the next three years to help protect abused and neglected children and young people in the Bundaberg area.
Child Safety Minister Phil Reeves today announced the Heytesbury Family Group Home would receive more than $1.86 million, St Vincent de Paul Society would receive more than $680,000 and Peirson Services would receive almost $800,000.
“With this funding, Heytesbury Family Group Home near Childers will provide around the clock care and supervision for up to six young people aged 12 to 17 years at a time,” Mr Reeves said.
He said of all of the young people being cared for by Heytesbury Family Group Home would have high to complex needs, ranging from medical issues to challenging behaviours, including violence.
“Children and young people in care have often suffered severe abuse or neglect,” he said.
“This can leave them with emotional scars and behavioural issues that they need to work through.
“The support and care they receive from foster carers, youth workers and other professionals in care help these young people begin to rebuild their lives, and possibly even return home to their own families if it’s safe.”
Mr Reeves said the funding would also enable the St Vincent de Paul Society and Peirson Services to provide counselling and support to vulnerable children, young people and their families referred by the Department of Communities in the Bundaberg district.
“Based on the record of these organisations over the past three years, the government will continue to fund and work with these organisations to provide safe and supportive places for these vulnerable children and young people,” he said.
Mr Reeves said it was a sad fact that as at 31 December 2008, almost 180 children and young people in Bundaberg area could not live safely at home because one or both of their parents abused or neglected them.
"Thanks to our community partners such as Heytesbury Family Group Home, St Vincent de Paul Society and Peirson Services, children and young people who have been abused or neglected are receiving the support they need, have a safe place to stay and a much brighter future.
“Protecting our children is an enormous responsibility. That’s why we are investing another record amount of $638 million in child protection in the 2009-10 State Budget.
“Despite the global financial crisis, the Bligh Government is committed to maintaining our essential child protection services.”
The Bundaberg funds will help to create and sustain about 13 full-time-equivalent jobs.
Media contact: Minister Reeves’ office 3235 9236.
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