A new specialist Housing and Support Link Service has opened on the Gold Coast to support young families receiving treatment at the Gold Coast University Hospital while experiencing or being at risk of homelessness.
The service can support around 30 young families at any one time, including vulnerable young pregnant women aged 16–25.
Partnering with the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service, Wesley Mission Queensland will run the new service which integrates housing help directly into the healthcare system.
Through a dedicated onsite team, young families will be linked with housing assistance, tenancy support and wraparound services to help them secure safe, suitable accommodation and sustain a long-term tenancy.
Minister for Housing, Public Works and Youth, Sam O’Connor said the Government was investing almost $600 million in new funding for crisis accommodation and homelessness support services to help keep more Queenslanders in stable, long-term housing.
“This new service provides stability when it’s needed most for young Gold Coast families who are doing it tough. No young family should face the fear of homelessness while dealing with the stress of a hospital stay. This service delivers young parents immediate, practical support to secure a safe home and keep it long-term,” Mr O’Connor said.
“Interventions for pregnant young women and young families facing homelessness help with their immediate well-being and reduces the impacts of homelessness for their children.
“Our expert teams help them with housing options including sustaining existing housing, accessing private rental homes, assisting with social housing applications, supporting them at Services Australia appointments, even exploring work and study options.’’
Wesley Mission Queensland Living Well director, Shane Beacall said the organisation was excited to collaborate on the program that addresses housing and health needs in a way that is customer-focused, culturally safe, and community-driven.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to supporting young families during one of the most important times in their lives. Together, we are building pathways to secure housing and better health outcomes for parents and their children.”
Greta Weertman, Gold Coast Health Assistant Director of Social Work (Women, Newborns and Children) said having a stable and secure home environment helps set children up for the best start in life, and this housing link will be one way to support that.
“This service will play a vital role in aiding young, vulnerable women through this critical period through education, advocacy, and practical assistance to give both herself and her baby the best possible chance at a safe and stable future, Ms Weertman said.
“After seeing the impact this service has had in Brisbane, we are excited and hopeful for what this service will bring to women on the Gold Coast.”
