ANNUAL REPORT 2010-2011 - Noffs · 2015-04-09 · PALM Sydney participated in Mental Health month...

ANNUAL REPORT 2010-2011

Noffs Annual Report 2010-2011

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Annual Report 2010-2011

Ted Noffs Governing Committee

Frank Hansen (vice President), Jamie Prell (Treasurer), Professor Ian Webster (President), Dr Debra Zador, Professor Toni Makkai, Wesley Noffs CEO and Amanda Noffs (Secretary Ex-Officio and COO)

Message from CEO and COO Wes and Mandy Noffs Noffs has weathered two major organisational setbacks this year. We have lost two of our most respected PALM services in Dubbo and Coffs Harbour. The cost of closure of these services has contributed $350,000 to our deficit. We remain concerned that young people in those areas still do not have an adequate replacement program. Our Social Enterprise initiative Gideon Shoes, has taken longer than expected to reach the sales targets we have set and consequently we continue to look for Government support. On top of these financial impacts our communications costs have exceeded budgets, and we have therefore incurred the worst end to a financial year in our history. On a much more positive note, Mandy and I have been impressed and proud with the level of staff commitment and moral. The effort each of the senior staff has made and is making is impressive and we are seeing almost as many young people as we did with the other two programs. This is partially due to the fact that referees want to continue with our services in preference to the new operator. We have had our treatment services reduced but we have also had a significant improvement in longer term outcomes. Much of this stems from our programs in the community such as CALM and Street University. Despite these setbacks our PALM staff have improved retention of young people. PALM managers are working hard to improve staff effectiveness and young people’s outcomes. Ronan O’Connor continues to provide excellent internal training; the training is targeted and meaningful to our team. Ronan has a good insight into the working of the Therapeutic Community and we hope to see great things being achieved in the coming years. Our clinical leadership was driven by Michael Kirton and we express our gratitude to him always going beyond what is expected, we are fortunate to have him.


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The Street University team is achieving unexpected numbers of young people participating in the programs. Matthew Noffs is discussing plans to develop Street Universities in locations other than Liverpool. The Ted Client Management System is looking promising and to date We Help Ourselves has introduced it into their service, Odyssey House, WEAVE and Karalika in the ACT have also shown a strong interest. Julie Dubuc is doing a wonderful job with Young People in school and indigenous communities in Blacktown and Mt Druitt. Mandy and I are looking at how Ted Noffs can move forward in an ever-changing environment where Government can no longer be expected to support community organisations which are actively involved with people who are experiencing isolation and hard ship.


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Annual Report Clinical Services/Service Management November 2011 Clinical Psychologist: Michael Kirton

Comment The data presented in this report is an achievement related to the input of the Leadership Team including Wesley and Mandy Noffs and in particular Mark Ferry, Julie Dubuc and Ronan O’Connor. During the three months that Wesley and Mandy Noffs were on leave we were ably supported in management and clinical practice by Frank Hansen. Residential Units All of the units experienced increased completion and retention rates in the past year. The implications of this are that we are treating more young people than ever before and secondly given that on average they are staying longer their treatment is more effective (as time in treatment correlates strongly with better outcomes). Communication with the managers including Assistant Managers at the PALM and CALM programmes is had on a daily basis from HO. There is a combined Managers Meeting between all services once per week. These meeting are done using the Video Conferencing facility. Reports on every shift in both Units are made by shift workers and emailed to HO. (See example Addenda 1) The PALM and CALM units work in collaboration in sharing of staff and assisting each other to maintain continuity of treatment for the YP in these PALM programmes. (See example Addenda 2) The introduction of the automated suicide/self harm alert system introduced by Mark Ferry has brought in a new era in risk minimisation for the Noffs in its work with at risk Young People. Highlights from the year follow. PALM Sydney Managers at PALM Sydney are currently: Sally Warwick, Manager, Kieran Palmer - Assistant Manager, Wesley Stokes - Assistant Manager. Wesley Stokes has been appointed in September 2011 after Tom Whittenbury the previous Assistant Manager moved to be the CALM Manager Sydney. Senior AODW staff include: Leki Mafoe, Kelly Sobiesiak, Daniel van Anen.


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The statistics for the last 3 years indicate excellent outcomes regarding client retention rates. There were increases as shown below:

There are at least three main factors for this improvement:

• Consistent and effective management and clinical guidance from the Leadership Team.

• Improved staff retention rates in the last 3 years. • Effective and regular training for staff from the training team. (Addenda 6)

Staff retention rate:

• There has been a significant increase in staff retention rates at PALM Sydney over the last 3 years :

• Management team: Manager: 8.5 years, Clinical Asst Manager: 6 years, Operational Assistant Manager: 2.5 years (previously Snr AODW)

• Counsellors: Both Counsellors have worked for PALM Sydney for over 5 years. • Admin: Miao Yi Kuang has worked for PALM for 3.5 years • CALM staff are all former PALM Staff: Mgr: 5.5 years, counsellor: 3 years, vocational

education coordinator: 2.5 years. • There has been an increase in AODWs staying in their role. 5 of our Seniors over the

last 2 years staying in their roles for 2.5 years. • 3 of the fulltime AODWs have worked for the organisation for 1 or more years.


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Increase in Telephone Screens Completed by the Intake Officer. 2009/10 compared to 2010/11

Meetings, Networking and Training A new data collection system was introduced to replace SMART by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Sam Wilson and Sally Warwick attended the two day training course in July and then trained the PALM staff that would be required to use it. PALM management attended several CDAT meetings. Sally Warwick is the chairperson of the Randwick CDAT and has been project managing an inhalant resource booklet which Bendigo Bank has agreed to fund a substantial amount of the printing costs. The CDAT also ran a successful community bbq in Maroubra on 5th Nov which local MP Bruce Notely- Smith attended. Hip Hoperations provided a workshop. Eastern Suburbs Youth Services Network meeting which occurs bi-monthly. Meeting at NSW Health office of Health Advancement to discuss potential funding for a healthy lifestyles program and smoking cessation support program. Oasis Drug and Alcohol service in September about the PALM program. AOD psycho education to 6 young people involved in a court diversionary program at the Maroubra PCYC. PALM Sydney participated in Mental Health month by having information stalls at the following forums: “Bringing Parents Up to Speed” on the 29th October, The Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum in Campbelltown. Addiction Medicine Doctors from the Langton Centre visited PALM to gain a better understanding of our service. “Big Kitchen” attendance by Young People where they made food for themselves and another charity. They are able to use this facility on an ongoing basis.


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Founder of the “Big Kitchen” also organised a personal training session with her trainer for the young people for one of their afternoon recreation groups. NSW Health Smoking Cessation Workshop at the Shack Youth Service. PALM ACT Managers at PALM Canberra are currently: Jessica Aulich, Manager, Jaimie Northam, Clinical Manager, and Patrick Mullin Assistant Manager. In the last six months have three new Senior AODW’s at PALM ACT these are: Danial Massey, Andrew Bennett, Dylan Chauncy The ACT Unit went through a period of upheaval in the management structure from March to July 2011. This was initiated by the manager Brett Pridmore having to take time off for health reasons and then resigning on his return. After interviews the position was offered to an applicant who accepted then declined the position. Several staff resigned during this period including the two Assistant Managers. Jessica Aulich accepted the position of Manager in June 2011. Jaimie Northam accepted the position of Clinical Manager in July 2011 and Patrick Mullin, Assistant Manager in November 2011. Since July 2011 the PALM Unit has been working very positively. This has reflected in the overall high level of motivation and positive feedback from the overwhelming majority of staff. In turn this staff positive energy has reflected in very positive outcomes for the YP in the programme and this is reflected currently in the high retention rates. Feedback from community agencies has been particularly positive in the last six months. (See Addenda 4) The graph for retention rates in ACT is below. The decrease in retention rates for 2010-2011 is due to the dramatic increase (120) in the numbers of Young People being admitted to the programme and being treated in the programme. There is also an effect from the use of the CALM programme with the extended follow up and mentoring.


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Year Retention Admissions 2008-2009 41.0 88 2009-2010 40.4 89

2010-2011 31.7 120 Community connections ACT developed in 2011: Winnunga Indigenous Health Centre- Ian Bateman comes out and meets with the young people once a week for a group. Groups cover a whole range of things from health and exercise to cultural identity. Ian also helps to facilitate our weekly touch football matches which staff and residents, as well as people from Winnunga participate in. We have also started taking all our indigenous clients to see the doctors at Winnunga instead of our usual GP, as they are better and it’s helping us to form better relationships. Headspace All Young People who have comorbid or potentially comorbid conditions referred to Headspace. If Young People request medication we can refer them to Headspace. Turnaround Jess Aulich also sits on a board once a fortnight that assess Young People for suitability for the Turnaround program. In the last month Jess Aulich has set up a new ITC with Turnaround – to be ratified by HO. Youth Justice Promoting our service, educating the case workers about what we do and getting them involved in support during program engagement. In the last month Jess Aulich has written a new ITC with YJ. To be ratified by HO. Youth Drug Court Ted Noffs has had some involvement in the setting up of the new ACT youth drug court. The Junction Youth Health Service Do a group with us once a week on health related things (safe sex, hep c, etc). Young People have started to access their Nicotine Replacement Therapy program. Northside Community Centre Cultural identity groups weekly. Bimberri Youth Justice Increased referral levels in past two months. Promoted the Workplace Tobacco Management Plan initiated by ATODA, which has changed the staff smoking culture. PALM – ACT Family and Carers Support Group (Addenda 5)


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Recorded Contacts from 31st October 2010 to 31st October 2011

772

842

2028

552

0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500

Groups

In-Person Contact

Phone Calls

Social Networking

Type

of c

onta

ct

Number of contacts

CALM Programmes

CALM Sydney Graffiti work

CALM is based on both the Social and Structural Determinants model and the Recovery Model. CALM works by supporting young people for up to three years (five years for YP with Mental Health issues) - post treatment, through connecting young people – both in their local communities through life management support, work-experience, vocational education, counselling, mentoring and support from members of the business community. The main aim is connecting young people back into the community with a permanent and positive life trajectory. The following lists indicate work practices in CALM –ACT and Canberra in the current year. The data reflects an ever increasing expansion of the programmes with ongoing extensive life management influence to the YP in the programmes. CALM Sydney information over one year (31st October 2010 to 31st October 2011) Contacts: Contacts Over the past twelve months (31st October 2010 to 31st October 2011) CALM Sydney has recorded the following amount of contacts: Phone Calls: 2,028 In-Person Contacts: 842 Social Networking (Facebook): 552 Young people who have attended Group Work: 772


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Groups Offered Over the past twelve months (31st October 2010 to 31st October 2011) CALM Sydney has conducted the following groups:

• Resume writing • Interview Skills • Verbal Communication • Goal Setting and Dreaming • Budgeting/Living Costs • Basic Numeracy and Literacy Skills • Sexual Health • General Health • Relapse Prevention • AOD Information • Graffiti and Art • Internet safety (e.g. What you should not put on Facebook) • Recreational outings

Schools and Education CALM Sydney has been working with several schools by supporting them in working with students who are experiencing difficulties from AOD misuse and criminal issues. This support came after Juvenile Justice has asked for us (CALM) to assist with their clients in remaining in the school environment, by offering support and counselling if needed. CALM Sydney has built relationships with teachers and principals at particular schools to ensure that the young people are engaged in school activities, to assist with the reduction of their AOD and crime involvement. Schools have also been supportive of their students continuing their studies with the assistance of CALM and this has greatly benefited clients who are in the PALM Program who are unable to attend school. CALM has also been given permission by certain schools to allow clients who are currently in PALM to sit end of year exams under the supervision of CALM staff. (Addenda 2) This has allowed young people to remain up-to-date with their schooling despite being in residential treatment. CALM Sydney has partnerships and/or collaborates with the following Organisations and Services:

• PALM Sydney (Noffs Foundation) • Street University (Noffs Foundation) • Petersham Juvenile Justice • Youth Justice Conference (YJC) with Surry Hills Juvenile Justice • The Beach School in Northern Sydney • Youth Reach in Northern Sydney • Eastlakes Community Centre • PCYC’s around Sydney • Centrelink Darlinghurst

Employment and Further Education: CALM Sydney have worked on developing relationships with employers in the community willing to take on young people for work experience and possibly followed by employment. We now have a range of employers who participate in the following vocational areas;


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• Hospitality (Café) • Mechanics • Construction • Graphic Design • Child Care / Youth Work • Panel Beating • Realty

CALM Sydney has also worked with agencies who provide relevant courses and certificates relating to a young person’s employment. The following are courses/certificates completed by young people:

• Responsible Service of Alcohol and Gambling (RSA) • OH&S Construction (Whitecard) • NSW Learner Drivers Licence • First Aid Certificate • Red Cross (‘Save A Mate’ Program) This program is to educate young people in

harm minimisation techniques when it comes to AOD use, warning signs of intoxication/overdose and other helpful relevant information that young people should know about alcohol and other drug use.

Trends/Patterns: CALM Sydney has noticed the following trends/patterns over the past year; A significant increase in referrals from Juvenile Justice to CALM. An increase involvement with Youth Justice Conference. (YJC) An increase in the number of PALM clients who have gained employment. An increase in PALM Clients who have gone onto further their education either at school or TAFE. Constant contact and re-connection with ‘old’ PALM Clients, through the use of Facebook.


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Calm ACT Contacts

Over the past 12 months since CALM ACT was opened, according to statistics in TED, there have been;

• 976 “in Person” Contacts, • 772 ‘Group’ Contacts, • 156 “Social Networking” Contacts, • 110 “Phone” contacts, • 48 “unregistered contacts”, • 6 “Email” contacts • 1 contact via “website” • Workshops and Groups • Over the past 12 months CALM ACT have been offering and facilitating groups in the

following areas; • Resume writing • Interview Skills • Verbal Communication • Goal Setting and Dreaming • Budgeting/Living Costs • Road Ready Training • Basic Numeracy and Literacy Skills • Sexual Health • General Health • Relapse Prevention • AOD Information • Graffiti and Art • Music • Internet safety


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CALM – ACT has been liaising with a local graffiti shop, run by artists who are going to run Graffiti workshops at CALM. These will be available to all young people. These workshops aim to give young people an insight into the history of the art and to open avenues for young people to make a career from their art and/or learn legal ways and areas of expressing their art publicly. CALM have worked with the Youth Co., PCYC, and DIRECTIONS ACT in developing and co facilitating a 6 session AOD education program aimed at youth at risk, who are still at school but starting to experiment with drug use. Music CALM ACT has professional music and recording equipment available for young people to use. This allows young people to write their own raps and beats and then put these to music as well as record them. This is proving to be very popular and many young people are attending, as they have heard from others what is available. The music equipment also includes and electric drumkit, Acoustic and electric guitars, an electric piano, as well as a CD and vinyl turntable for mixing.

CALM ACT

Schools and Education CALM ACT has been working with several teachers in local schools by supporting them in working with students who are experiencing difficulties from AOD Misuse. This support came after schools contacted CALM. CALM was invited to a local college to introduce the service. CALM has been invited back to this college in the early new year for another talk and are hoping to be able to expand these types of presentations to the wider college community. This is a rare experience as schools in ACT do not usually invite help in this area. CALM offers free internet and a quiet space for young people to come up and work on assignments/homework etc. We have also been asked on occasion by the local alternative education program to allow a student to work at CALM during school hours. CALM has had meetings with the Youth Education Program about working together to have a program where young people wishing to complete year 10 could come to CALM one day a week and sit with a teacher to work on having modules signed off towards the completion of their certificate. Trends CALM ACT has noticed the following trends with the young people.

• Music development – especially hiphop, rap and techno. • Drop in – young people we have no prior contact with are dropping in to see what we

are about. • Reconnecting – Young people disconnecting from CALM then reconnecting when in

need of support or ‘just walking past’. • Community Meetings and Connection with Services


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CALM ACT has worked on developing strong links within the community sector and have developed positive working relationships with service providers including;

• Youth Education Program (YEP) • DIRECTIONS ACT • Youth in the City • The Junction • Narrabundah House Indigenous Accomodation • AFP – Youth Liaison Team • Turnaround • PCYC • Gugan Gulwan Aboriginal Corporation • Winnunga Indigenous Health • Employment and Work Experience

CALM ACT have worked on developing relationships with employers in the community willing to take on young people for work experience and possibly followed by employment. We now have a range of employers who participate in the following vocational areas;

• Landscaping • Animal care and grooming • Mechanics • Hospitality • Construction • Graphic Design • Child Care • Panel Beating • Aged Care • Law

Travel and logistics CALM have also worked with agencies who provide relevant courses and certificates relating to a young person’s employment. Often these training courses can be expensive, and by connecting with these agencies we have been able to gain access for young people to participate and a discounted rate and in some cases free of charge. The following are courses/certificates completed by young people;

• Barista Certificate • Responsible Service of Alcohol and Gambling (RSA) • OH&S Construction Whitecard • ‘Brick and Block’ (Brick laying introduction) • ACT Learner Driver Licence • Friday Nights

CALM are in the planning of a Friday night “Party” Event for November 2011. This will include a “Dubstep Band” and provide a safe Drug and Alcohol Free event in the city. There is high interest from the young people. It is planned to run these events every two months. Cross City Tunnel Project Throughout 2011 The Ted Noffs Foundation has maintained a strong presence in the Woolloomooloo Community, facilitating various projects designed to empower young people against substance use and related difficulties. The Fake is Fraud Program continues to run since its inauguration in 2009, raising awareness in young people about the risks and consequences of using fraudulent ID and entering licensed premises underage. The program expanded in 2011 to explore with senior students similar risks involved during ‘Schoolies Week’, employing harm minimization


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techniques in keeping themselves and their peers safe throughout the school holiday period. There has also been significant public awareness raised about the program, particularly in so far as liaising with Government services such as the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, who distributed Fake is Fraud posters to licensed premises throughout New South Wales. On a smaller scale, a counselling service was launched out of the PCYC in Woolloomooloo, the first of its kind. Here young people have been able to engage one-on-one with a Ted Noffs drug and alcohol counsellor about perceived issues around substance use in themselves, their peers, family and community. Finally the Traffic Offenders Intervention Program has run throughout 2011 at the Woolloomooloo PCYC for license holders committed of a driving offence, most commonly “Driving Under the Influence”. At this, a Ted Noffs drug and alcohol counselor conducts a two hour workshop about the impact of alcohol and other drugs on the brain, body and subsequently, driving skills. The aim of the programme has been to reinforce the dangers of combining alcohol, drugs and driving, and the social and economic cost to people and the community. This programme has reached over one hundred licence holders. Mt Druitt – Outclients Mt Druitt service has continued to be a very effective service in the outer West. MT Druitt. The Schools Programme The Schools programme has been acclaimed by an external evaluation by the Education Dept as having no shortcomings and good outcomes. Schools statistics: Term 3 2010 Total of 277 students seen in schools by our schools program 1:1 counselling 246 Group counselling 82 Skills training groups 61 Term 4 2010 Total of 253 students seen in schools by our schools program 1:1 counselling 189 Group counselling 86 Skills training groups 60 Term 1 2011 Total of 243 students seen in schools by our schools program 1:1 counselling 241 Group counselling 63 Skills training groups 60 Term 2 2011 Total of 266 students seen in schools by our schools program 1:1 counselling 223 Group counselling 66 Skills training groups 57 Total number of students seen in schools for financial year 2010-2011: 1039


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MT Druitt. Nepean – Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury counselling position for 2010-2011:

• 160 requesting information (of these 20 did not want the service and the remaining people were outside of our criteria).

• 132 young people receiving AOD counselling service.

• 132 young people seen for counselling with an average of 4 sessions across all

clients.

• 75% of clients were assessed as reduced or crisis was prevented according to staff assessment.

Two young people with child protection issues that were reported due to working under the new reporting system and working collaboratively with other services dealing with issues that do not meet the criteria for significant harm.

• Approximately 70% of clients were assessed as having an improved self-esteem, independence and quality of life as a result of assessments conducted.

• There were 80 cases closed where treatment had been concluded with the young

person.

• Clients are contacted within one day of the referral and seen at the nearest convenient time (usually within a week).

• 50 clients were primarily case managed by our service including liaising with other

services addressing all issues in response to their case treatment plans.

• 70% of clients had reduced risk and crisis as a result from their assessment, counselling and case management.

• Attended 8 interagency meetings in the Hawkesbury.

• Attended 10 interagency meetings in the Blue Mountains.

• Involved in planning meetings for Hawkesbury Youth Week.

Highlights:

Attending Mental Health Council Nepean Division of general practice meeting in order to meet other services in the Nepean and to raise awareness of services in the Nepean which general Practitioners can refer to. Organized to receive referrals from the Nepean division of General practice. Networking with a new youth service in Katoomba called ‘Glue Factory’. They are a case work/ drop in service for homeless youth and one of the services they are promoting is AOD counselling and they do not have a staff member for this role. Linking interested clients from the Blue Mountains and Hawkesbury areas into the ‘Rhythm and Reform’ workshop held in our office. Rhythm and Reform is a music program which involves elements of self development and awareness. Making connection with Penrith Inter Youth Centre to see clients from the mountains who are referred through Juvenile Justice at the centre after they have attended their JPET school classes there.


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Developing strong ties with Headspace Mt Druitt in order to create referral pathways back and forth between our organizations for clients from the Nepean. (Blue Mountains & Hawkesbury) Attending Juvenile Justice Conferences from both Penrith and Blacktown offices. Developing ties with Marist Youth Care and the Youth Homelessness Service (HYS) which has resulted in a number of referrals to their service for supported accommodation for our clients. Presenting at an AOD training for Mountains Youth Workers training day. Attending the YAIN speed networking expo at the Blacktown Council Chambers which allowed further contact with services working in the Nepean. (Blue Mountains & Hawkesbury) Presenting at the Cobham Juvenile Detention centre client services meeting in order to work with clients as they are leaving detention to the Blue Mountains & Hawkesbury areas. Presenting at the Emu Plains Juvenile detention centre client services meeting in order to work with clients as they are leaving detention to the Blue Mountains & Hawkesbury areas. Presenting at the YAIN monthly meeting at the Marist Youth Care headquarters. Working with clients in Springwood High School. Continued strong ties with MYST. (Mountains Youth Services Team) MT Druitt. GITS Aboriginal case management/brokerage position for 2010-2011 financial year:

As a result of excess funds from brokerage being utilised to facilitate music workshops, young people who accessed this service were then referred to the GIT’s counsellor for ongoing case management and support. This worked well and in turn young people who may not normally utilise the GIT’s support were put in contact and received support. We were without a GIT’s counsellor for several months however, in spite of this many of the young people were agreeable to see our other non-Aboriginal counsellors or were referred to an Aboriginal service.

• Total of 125 young people seen during financial year. 35 female and 90 male. • Number of young people receiving interventions for Drug and Alcohol:120 • Received Specialist counselling:4 • Received Psychiatric interventions:8 • Received Health and Medical support:18 • Family members receiving assistance:35 • Young people receiving specific Cultural intervention:38 • Young people receiving assistance for Sexual Assault:9 • Young people receiving assistance for Legal issues:40 • Young people receiving assistance for DV:10 • Young people enrolled back into schools and TAFES after intervention: 40 • Young people who were not students prior to intervention:56 and post intervention:40 • Young people enrolled in post secondary pre treatment:15 and full-time employment

post treatment:20


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• Young people referred and engaged with sports and other activities clubs and groups: 59

• Young people receiving advocacy on behalf of TNF: 80 Mt Druitt. Future Strategies: The Education Department is supportive of the expansion of the Schools program due to demand and effectiveness. Meetings have been conducted to explore future possible expansion which is solely subject to when/if funding becomes available. Forming partnerships in projects with NSW Housing, Wesley Mission, Rail Corp and local Aboriginal Services looking for opportunities for resources and expansion. Workshops with Matt Noffs have been held regularly in the previous month and will be continuing in preparation of Street University model. Continue to seek further funding for expansion of clinical service for Mount Druitt area with a focus on ongoing funding opportunities. To install a volunteers program to support new project. Training in the Units– Comments Ronan O’Connor has led Training in the Units. All clinical training has been tailored to Unit needs related to developing Clinical and treatment expertise of staff in working with the YP. The response to training has been rated as consistently positive and has been increasingly stated in feedback forms as being more and more relevant and directly applicable to the work with the YP. This acknowledgement has been validated by feedback from the Units which suggests that anecdotally and observationally the therapeutic approach is more consistent with the YP. Retention rates and occupancy rates which are high is also an indication of the current level of client satisfaction with the programme. Reports from the published research undertaken with Sally Nathan at UWS, indicate that staff feel that the training is very relevant and supportive of their work. Also that their work with the YP is better for the training programme. Training also serves the purpose of keeping in contact with counsellors, managers and AODW’s in being able to see and hear first hand how they are performing at the various skills required. It also provides a forum upon which clinical insights into issues within units can be dealt with within a training format. This has been a very effective use of training resources. Ongoing training developments involving the clinical area relate to the development of new and expanded training programmes in trauma assessment and management, mediation in conflict, self harm, suicide and prevention, CBT in use for Depression, Anxiety stress and stress management, mindfulness practice, revised case treatment and action plans, consequence based discipline procedures, relapse prevention upgrade and establishment, leadership in the workplace and training on unit cultures of blame. All staff are being trained and graded through skills in motivational interviewing and leadership qualities.


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TN’s Training Programmes Undertaken since last AGM (2010-2011) Training completed:

• ACT Unit Training 2 days x 4 • Comorbidity and Young People 2 days x 2 • Clinical Forum 2 days x 4 • Life Management Forum 2 days x 4 • Group Work 2 days x 2 • Sydney Unit Training 2 days x 3 • ACT COOP Training 1 day x 2 • ACT Unit Training 2 days x 3 • Management being run for Ted Noffs Managers x 4 • Sydney Youth Services: Managing Challenging Behaviours 2 days x 1

Training is an essential component of the clinical supervision process with all staff and is a particular strength of the Ted Noffs clinical accountability process independently of the training aspect itself. Unit Visits Regular visits to ACT (once per fortnight) have been made to undertake interviews for staffing appointments and recruitment and to talk with staff about clinical, team and management issues. Clinical Supervision of Counsellors and Programmes Phone contact or video contact is made weekly where possible with counsellors outside of Sydney. Sydney Unit is visited weekly where possible for the Clinical Meeting. ACT Unit Clinical Meeting is visited by videoconference on a regular basis. Relapse Prevention Plans, Case Treatment Plans, Action Plans and Discharge Summaries are regularly scrutinised with TED and discussed with Counsellors and/or managers as needed. Regular contact is made from managers and counsellors by phone or personal contact regarding clinical matters. Clinical assistance is given to Outclient’s Services as needed on an individual basis. Clinical Supervision for Registration of Psychologists for AHPRA and Intern Trainees Three employees have completed their supervisory requirements for AHPRA Registration and two are being or to be supervised under Board requirements in one to one process weekly. This is a two year commitment and staff are paying an arranged fee to Ted Noffs for this service. There have been six supervised trainee psychologists who have completed their placements at the Sydney Unit and in addition there are currently two trainee’s working in the Unit. Ongoing Projects All counsellors have done ongoing training in trauma management and treatment with YP using most recent evidence based clinical work. All staff have been trained in the effects of Trauma on the brain and the effects of trauma on the YP we work with. Trauma assessment is now undertaken with all YP. Relaxation Groups have been upgraded and are now firmly established in all Units.


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Case Treatment Plans are now an established procedure with all YP. The goals and outcomes from the CTP are part of the Action Plan goals for the YP. Case Treatment Plans have undergone revision and revisions are now in TED. Action Plans have been extended and reformatted to include all goals/work to be done and work completed by the YP. The Action Plan is an integral part of the programme planning in the Units and all therapeutic/skills/education work done in collaboration with the YP is recorded and accounted for on the Action Plan. Family Assessments are a regular feature in the PALM Programme and all counsellors are now skilled at conducting clinical interviews with a view to assessment for treatment of the YP and the ongoing follow up post PALM. COOP in ACT is under review. The numbers have increased in this programme however it has not achieved its goals for the year. Street University is currently beginning to operate in ACT and it could be that the two could combine. Regular supervision and contact with Tony Ryan, Aboriginal worker who is working for Ted Noffs at PALM Sydney teaching Aboriginal Culture, Spiritual Connection and Family. The advent of the unified computer software, TED, has increased the overall visibility of all staff in the therapeutic process and will affect the training process and outcomes of training in terms of follow up and supervision. Regular scrutiny is made of Counsellor KPI’s through use of TED. The upgrade of the Journal for the YP is currently being upgraded by Ronan O’Connor and myself. Research is being done with the Units. This is with the DCI which is a new adolescent questionaire targeting information about the effectiveness of the modified TC in the Unit programme. To date there are 40 questionaires completed. Ethics Committee Thanks for the Ethics Committee headed by Deborah Zador and including Ian Webster, Gilbert Whitten, Wesley and Amanda Noffs and Lisa Webb. Lisa has taken over as Research Officer in the absence of Lucia Albertella who moved to NICPIC. The Committee will have met three times by the end of 2011 and is overseeing research and programme development. Future Projects and Projected Clinical Training in 2012 Ongoing training for all staff in Motivational Interviewing Techniques. This is to assist in developing the therapeutic milieu in the units and is designed to assist counsellors in their role. Ongoing training and use of Contingency Management strategies for specific issues within units. Renewal and upgrading of the Journal in the PALM programme. Aboringinal and Torres Strait Islanders Cultural Awareness Training. Further training in Trauma and its effects on YP. Development of Problem Solving training in the Units with all staff.


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Ongoing Training and Conferences • NDARC Research Symposium, NSW • 6th International Conference on Drugs and YP. 3rd May 2011 Paper Presentation:

“Staff and client views of a therapeutic community model for adolescents with Drug and Alcohol issues”.

• The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy, Healing the Social Brain, Dr Louis Cozolino, • AACBT Conference, Sydney November 2011 • NADA Research Symposium August 2011 • APSAD Conference Canberra 2010


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Addenda 1 PALM ACT: Example of Duty Report Good afternoon Team Awesome, IT has been an interesting shift, let me describe it for you. All the boys were up on time and ready to go to mains. XX is away on PRAC and was not here (I thought I’d lost him at first). The boys got in and had breakfast. A few of them decided to make Pancakes which went well, however at Lunch we found they had failed to clean up their pancakey mess (but I’ll get to that). Some points of interest from this morning (yes, im going the bullet points because its 5:00 and I want to go home) XX worker from turnaround was running two hours late. XX had no smokes and was counting on his worker taking him to rectify this. He had a little tantrum and swore and carried on and kicked a chair. He eventually calmed down and appeared to accept this. In the end the worker came and he got done what he needed. Upon return he was really quite co-operative with chores and I would give him a point for this. IT was quite refreshing to see XX also had an outburst this morning. He was informed he owes rent here and became quite agitated and used a lot of bad language expressing his feelings towards this. HE has spoken multiple times about going back to PALM in Sydney. Also today he has had to be pulled up abut his contact with XX. After lunch the mess from breakfast was discovered. WE asked XX and XX to assist with cleaning this (as they were the instigators of cooking the pancakes) Brody pretended to be asleep and would not budge. XX point blank refused to do it. A house meeting was called so this could be addressed. This ran into CALM time. Ultimately they both got in and finished the job This afternoon XX was found on the roof. He is on a borderline already and was very very close to being discharged. He is aware of this and his behaviour needs to be monitored tonight. Whilst cleaning the vehicles this morning XX took the handbrake off and moved the van, or let it roll. During the trip to CALM an incident seems to have happened with XX. He advised he was blamed for writing something on the wall. He is adamant he didn’t do it. He advised he doesn’t want to go back there New Resident XX came very close to discharging himself and has advised he is quite depressed. We really need to keep an eye on him and assist him as best we can. And last but not least, we had a quick game of cricket for exercise this morning. Its official, AODW’s John and Evan have amazing cricket skills for any potential team Noffs cricket team. Also, the guys need some tennis balls as Evan bowled a head hunter straight into the skip bin and lost the ball. . .and by Evan, I may infact mean John Well, I hope that about sums it up. Im out of here. Have a great shift friends. “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” – GANDHI... With Kind Regards


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Addenda 2 PALM and CALM Sydney communication: Hey, XX will be sitting exams during the week. He has two papers on both Monday and Tuesday, on Friday he has one paper. A teacher from one of the local schools will drop off his papers on these days. This has been arranged with Department of Education and I spoke with them today. He will need to have a quiet place to sit the papers if this can be arranged. XX has been informed of when his exams will be happening. Thanks! Reply: He can do this at calm in one of the study booths. Regards Addenda 3: Leaving Letter. My time at palm has been helpful and also unforgettable. the things I’ve learnt at palm is how to deal with my stress, anger, anxiety, and my worry levels. thank you to first sam WILSON (counsellor) on helping me through thick and thin in my time here at palm. Ash, man I don’t know where to start our chats our walks where good but most of all I think you are just a great worker don’t change man. J,B aka (Kongo) straight up no crap man we have had a few disagreements but in the end kuz you helped me through my journey thank you heaps j.b.. leki ahahaha nah leks man the only time I ever wanted to leave was that one time on that Saturday and you were just straight up about the whole thing and you haven’t changed. Kirk (k-dog) you were my support worker until you went down to calm aka (looser vill) jokes but you have a great fashion sense and that’s probably were i got half of my style from but you helped through a long but good journey at palm. Kelly & Jaquie OMG use two have helped me more then anyone in this program with just about everything and i could never thank use enough. The residents see you as a great person to have around they all look up to you and don’t give you shit. Dan you are massive man every time i see you its like looking in the mirror ahah nah but your straight up and tell it how it is like no easing in to it and i respect you so much man. CALM Tim (calm worker) man I’ve had some laughs with you and some disagreements but in the end i wouldn’t be were i am now if it wasnt for your support so thanks heaps and ill stay in touch. Tom thank you for getting me work experience through that cafe it has helped learn about alot of different things just keep in the back of your mind once you become a Maine you never go back LOL. To all the residents thanks boys and girls for the support you have shown and giving me throughout my time here at palm. Wes you taught me alot of different things in this short period of time like weather i was getting my leaves each week or not thank you.


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Kieran now from my point of view you taught me that honesty was the best way to be about any situation I was in and I can’t thank you enough for that im so grateful for this opportunity thankyou all for this experience i have been taught life skills that i will take with me everywhere i go... If i have missed anyone sorry and thank you all at Ted Noffs PALM Sydney MUCH LOVE XX Addenda 4 Hi everyone, I just wanted to touch base quickly with everyone and let you know some feedback we’ve been receiving from the wider community in regards to how our unit is growing and becoming a more established and respected treatment facility. A few months back when XX was in court Ted Noffs Canberra were recognised by the magistrate for the work we did with her. The magistrate said that her time with us was the longest time she’d spent in treatment and that the work she did on her goals and changing her behaviour was very “evident and impressive”. We were acknowledged for our quality of care, especially in regards to difficult cases. Over the last five or so months PALM has made a big effort to improve relationships with the government agencies Youth Justice and Turnaround. The feedback we have been receiving from case-workers and also the managers of these agencies is very positive. They have said that “staff are communicating well, ensuring effective continuity of care and stronger outcomes for our clients”. Feedback from staff at these agencies is that we are all working hard (and effectively) and that as a staff team we all really care about the young people in our service, which I think is wonderful. Youth Justice and Turnaround are starting to have a real presence within the unit which is helping to settle our young people and allows staff employed with these services to provide a better level of support post PALM. Family and Carers Support Night is starting up on the 19th of November in our family unit (old Co-Op). Although this support night hasn’t started yet this is another area that we have received praise from members of the community who have said that “this is a sign that Ted Noffs are really starting to pull together” and become a more open and responsive presence in the sector. Our relationship with Headspace has also improved in the last several months, which is helping us as a unit be able to better support our co-morbid mental health clients. We currently have three young people who are receiving adjunct counselling through this service and we have our counsellor Lachlan Dean to thank for the development of this ongoing relationship. This feedback from external agencies reflects on the practice of the whole unit. Thank you for all the hard work you are doing, it’s nice to know it’s not going unnoticed by the wider community. It’s been a time of change and receiving this type of feedback really demonstrates that as a unit we’re becoming stable and effective. The general vibe within our staff team is also fantastic. Staff are supportive, friendly and open, which is so important in a work environment like ours J Keep up the good work and remember to keep talking.


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Addenda 5 Family and Carers Support Group Family and Carers Support Meetings The Ted Noffs Foundation’s Family and Carers Support Meetings are designed to help provide support to families who are involved with a young person who is struggling with substance misuse. Supporting people through problematic drug and alcohol use can be very stressful and families often feel confused and powerless when trying to help their loved one. This group is designed to be a confidential space to debrief with a small group of other people who may be going through similar situations and to receive guidance/ support/ request recourses from our trained counsellors. Meets: Thursday Fortnight (public service pay week) at 350 Antill St, Watson ACT in our Family Support Building (follow the signs) at 6pm for about an hour. Eligibility: This group is open for anyone in the community who has a family member with a drug or alcohol problem. Although the group is focused to support families who have young people experiencing drug and alcohol problems, all are welcome. We ask that the user doesn’t attend. Cost: Gold coin donation for refreshments. RSVP: It is very useful for us to have an idea of who is able to attend the meetings. We ask that you please call. Addenda 6 Hey All Just had a call from XX and his Mum. XX was in PALM the middle of 2009. He is living in QLD and has bought is first car a suburu liberty with electric windows! What he enjoys most is driving to the waterhole and jumping off the 8 metre cliff. He doesn’t use any drugs anymore and drinks on special occasions (James was previously and daily drinker and cannabis smoker. XX was also a high risk violent offender) He is 19 now! He has never reoffended since leaving PALM. He is a sheet metal worker. His mother then asked me for advice around getting into youth work! She wants to give back and help disadvantaged youth. She thanked us for helping her son so much. Hi guys, XX was a resident with us several months ago. He was a very difficult client and it was clear that we really went above and beyond, through our varying roles, in dealing with him. We were patient, kind, frustrated, and at times despairing in our work with him but we guided him and helped him as much as we could until he made it clear, through his behaviours, that he wasn’t ready for this place and that he wanted to go. We have just received great feedback from his father XX. He said that no other organisation had done as much for XX as we had. He said that no other organisation had brought about as much change in XX as we had. He said that we helped them understand XX more. XX and his wife have been working tirelessly with many organisations to help XX. Ours stands out above all others for them. XX owns a successful property consultation business and has now offered their services free of charge to Ted Noffs. We have been rewarded. We are moving forward and we are making changes and we should all be proud of ourselves for this. Let’s pat ourselves on the back for the way in which we helped this young man.


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Annual Report Training Learning and Development November 2011 Manager: Ronan O’Connor

Training: Staff training continues to focus successfully on integrating new staff into established systems of quality care and building the skill base and therapeutic capacity of existing staff. Indications of this are to be found in: Staff retention: Retention of quality staff is increasing at Noffs. In the Sydney PALM and CALM Units for example all the managers have been with Noffs for 5 years or more. AODW’s on average are with Noffs twice as long as they used to be in Sydney PALM. Among other factors staff quality has enabled Noffs to build its capacity to deal with difficult mental health issues in the presentations of comorbid young people who utilise our services. The quality of clinical oversight and training has been a major influence in staff retention in this more challenging environment. Young person retention: Retention rates of young people in the PALM Programs have increased: ACT PALM number of days in the program, 2008/09 23.4 – 2010/11 31.7 Sydney PALM number of days in the program, 2008/09 27.93 – 2010/11 32.97. It is important to bear in mind that increased retention rates decreases the numbers of young people getting into the program particularly at this time when both our PALM Units are running close to maximum capacity most of the time. Graduation by young people from the program: The number of graduations from the Sydney PALM Program has doubled each year in the last three years. Continuity of care: Integration through the training process of the PALM residential program and the CALM continuing care program has produced better outcomes for young people. The treatment episode data system TED is being upgraded to better capture this trend and preliminary data looks very positive. The capacity to continue to work with young people after PALM through the CALM Program, has also had a positive impact on staff morale capacity to make a difference, and sense of achievement. This is not only evidenced anecdotally but also through the Noffs Values Survey. Comparative results over a number of years in the values aspired to by all staff, shows a clear trend towards a greater alignment of organisational and personal values. Training completed:

• ACT Unit Training 2 days x 4 • Comorbidity and Young People 2 days x 2 • Clinical Forums 2 days x 4 • Street University QMS Training 1 day x 1 • PALM/CALM Sydney QMS Training 1 day x 1 • ACT PALM. CALM, COOP QMS Training 1 day x 1 • Life Management Forum 2 days x 4 • Therapeutic Crises Intervention 3 days x 1 • Group Work 2 days x 2


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• Sydney Unit Training 2 days x 3 • ACT COOP Training 1 day x 2 • ACT Unit Training 2 days x 3 • Youth Substance Use x 12 • Understanding and Managing Challenging Behaviours x 12

Coordination of the second MHCC Advanced Diploma in Community Services Management being run for 14 Ted Noffs Managers x 4 Sydney Youth Services: Managing Challenging Behaviours 2 days x 1 Risk Management: Existing reporting systems have been upgraded to manage risk within the organisation with the following outcomes in mind:

• Greater capacity to oversight risk and risk levels in all areas by the COO and Risk and Strategy Committee.

• Consolidation of risk management systems into a single system.

• A rating system to easily highlight the high risk reports. • A move away from ‘incident’ and person blame culture

to an overall view of organisational risk management and teamwork in minimising risk.

The three reconfigured systems are:

1. The Consumer Risk Management Report System takes the place of the existing Incident Reporting System.

2. The External Risk Management Report System replaces the Complaints System. 3. The Staff Risk Management Reporting System replaces the Staff Incident Report.

Concurrent with the change in risk reporting systems, managing fire risk in all units has been overhauled. The primary change has been to separate the OH&S position from that of the Fire Warden. Each Unit now has its own designated Fire Warden. Fire evacuation systems and drills have been reviewed for all Units. Each Unit now also has a day to day online risk management system in which routine risk issues outside of the Risk Management Reporting System can be recorded. The system has a review mechanism. Quality Improvement: Noffs third QIC accreditation process was undertaken during the past year for which I was the Review Contact. The Final Report from QMS is due within the next month. All the necessary processes have been completed to achieve accreditation. The preparatory work for the accreditation required a review and reconfiguration of most systems within Noffs as the organisation had effectively stopped working with QIC from May 2006 due to issues with QMS. The major areas of redevelopment included:

• Development of an online Risk Management System for each Unit of the organisation which allows for routine risk assessment on an ongoing basis.

• Rewriting the Policy and Procedure Manual (lost in an IT malfunction) and the designation of a Policy and Procedure Officer.

• Designation of the position of Quality Officer which now lies with the COO. • Creation of new policies and procedures to fill gaps on the P&P Manual.


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• Review and reconfiguration of stakeholder feedback systems. • Development of Strategic and Risk Management Plans • All Unit familiarisation and training in QIC changes within Noffs. • A specific ACT Risk Assessment Plan was also completed at the request of the

Review Team. The inclusion of quality as a standard in itself in the new QIC Standards required the development of an online system to track our quality improvements. An online system has been developed for each Unit in Noffs which is designed for ease of use. The system allows the following: The tracking of all major and minor quality improvements at a Unit level. All quality improvements are recorded to meet the evidence requirements of QIC or any other quality review mechanism. This will make documentation of evidence for future quality reviews more manageable and cut the review preparation process substantially. Greater integration of quality improvement as a way of looking at organisational systems evolution by all management and staff. A review mechanism to check the integration of quality improvements. Media: For its size Noffs media presence is high. As part of this and in conjunction with Matt Noffs and Launch Management Group I have been involved in the preparation and presentation of material for radio interviews and articles for:

• ABC Radio National • JJJ Hack • Canberra Times

Other media releases that I have prepared material for include the combined media release between FARE and Noffs is also in preparation for release during Schoolies Week Research: NDRI, Curtin University, WA:, I worked in collaboration with Sam Wilson, PALM Sydney, on Noffs responsibilities in relation to the research project: ‘My Journey Map’: Developing a qualitative measure of young people’s progress in residential rehabilitation. To date Noffs has provided between 15 and 20% of the data for this research project. School of Health and Community Medicine, UNSW, ILP 2011 with Lucy Albertella, Sally Nathan and Michael Kirton collated and prepared the presentation papers for publication. School of Health and Community Medicine, UNSW, ILP 2012: with Lisa Webb, Sally Nathan and Michael Kirton, the development of a research project which validates a self evaluation and clinical tool, the function of which is the measurement of key domains of life function for participants of the PALM and CALM Programs. Community Drug and Alcohol and Mental health Research Network, organised by NADA and MHCC. NDARC UNSW Research Symposium Conference Organisation: Noffs had a strong representation at the 6DYP, the 6th International Conference on Drugs and Young People, Melbourne. One of my roles in relation to this conference was as Noffs representative on the organising committee. The conference committee achieved its budgetary and attendance objectives.


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Papers presented by Noffs included:

• Client and Staff views of the Therapeutic Community Model for Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Issues, Michael Kirton.

• Street University, music and art in the engagement of young people in the treatment process, Matt and Naomi Noffs.

Two Noffs staff, Michael Kirton and I held positions as convenors at the conference. I also held the position of Youth Rapport Panel member, a leadership mentoring program within the conference structure. National Drug and Alcohol Awards: The National Drug and Alcohol Awards Committee produced another successful awards ceremony in Sydney. As the Noffs representative on the committee I had specific responsibility for award committee selection and process’s in the Excellence in Research and Excellence in Services to Youth categories. Additionally at the presentations I had the responsibility fo awarding the Excellence n Research Award. The 2011 NDAA Committee completed their task with a healthy surplus going into the 2012 awards. Reconciliation Action Plan: The final Noffs Reconciliation Action Plan has been sent to Reconciliation Australia and we are awaiting their approval prior to implementation. Conferences and Training Attended:

• Out of the Shed: Men’s and Boys’ Mental Health Seminar. Qld • 6th International Conference on Drugs and Young People, Vic • Australasian Therapeutic Communities Association Conference, WA • APSAD, Canberra. • The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy, healing the social brain, Dr Louis Cozolino,

STAARTS NSW. Relationship Management: Representative of Noffs as a speaker or participant, at a number of events including Mallesons fund raising evening, NSW Young Lawyers Charity Trivia Event etc. The priority in ACT over the last six months has been on building Noffs relationships with stakeholders. Meetings have taken place with a number of organsiations and individuals including: ATODA, MHCC, Kate Gardner Acting Head, Drug and Alcohol , ACT Health. A portion of relationship development in ACT has also been the renegotiation of Noffs MOU with ATODA and negotiation for the payment of fees for services used to date. A number of productive meetings with Aboriginal representatives of ACT Aboriginal Services including Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Service and Gugan Gulwan Youth Aboriginal Corporation. As required speaking to visiting individual and groups visiting Randwick and PALM/CALM Sydney.


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Other Areas Student placements for which I hold responsibility continues to be a worthwhile service to students wishing to gain on the ground experience within the sector and a support for Units within Noffs freeing up fulltime staff for other functions. In particular the Forensic and Clinical Psychology students doing placements at Sydney PALM have been integrated readily into and contribute strongly to the therapeutic program Submissions’ writing has become a stronger focus for Noffs and as part of the Leadership Team, providing expertise and information to the Submissions Team has been a major component my work, particularly in the last six months. As a team in Head Office we take responsibility for each other’s work as the need arises. This collaborative capacity has required during the year taking up a variety of functions. .


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Business Development Annual Report 2011 Business Development Manager: Mark Ferry

In the Early part of this year my position changed from Programs Manager to Business Development Manager to concentrate on developing different areas of the Foundations Business. Program manager Role The comprehensive report on services is contained under Michael Kirton’s (current Program Manager) report, however some of the highlights include: CALM SYDNEY – Calm Sydney was created and launched in October 2010. It was housed in the Onenoffs shop in Alison Road Randwick. It has started well and increased its client base and fine tuned its operating procedures to become an integral part of the spectrum of treatment for young people. CALM ACT/COOP – CALM ACT was created and Launched in November 2010. Similar to Sydney the service is expanding its operations and client base. The exciting part of CALM ACT was relocating with COOP to premises in Civic. OUTCLIENTS – Of particular note at Outclients at Mt Druitt was the Rhythm and Reform Program initiated with the support of Street Uni. This programs provides music and arts based programs to clients. PALM COFFS/PALM DUBBO - Whilst it was sad to note the transition of our Coffs and Dubbo services there were some positives to take away. Amanda Noffs and I co-ordinated the smooth transfer of the services. This involved transferring the organisations assets, ensuring the staff were assisted in every way possible and most importantly ensuring the young people were handed over in a professional and ethical manner. Improved Services Initiative The Improved Services Initiative for Improved Services for People with Drug and alcohol Problems and Mental Illness continues to go from strength to strength. In December we submitted for and were successful for a variation extending the period to the end of June 2012. We continue to improve the work we do in the following areas Data collection and management, Training, Partnerships, assessment and structural Management. The following Graph shows our development over the past four years.


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Submissions team Early in the financial year the submissions section of the foundation was increased bringing together a small team to focus on the submissions, technical documents and associated research and evidence. This team has continued to grow from strength to strength. The team has worked closely with Wes and Mandy Noffs and the leadership team to produce a large amount of submissions with some success. Some of the successful submissions include Attorney Generals – Human Rights Grant, NSW Department of Human Services – Community Connectedness, Department of Health and Ageing – NGOTGP extensions for PALM Sydney, Palm ACT and COOP (ACT)and ISI grant ,Febfast – successful in being a partner for 2012,Perpetual, Coca Cola – supporting CALM Sydney and CDSE (Clubs). At the time of writing there were several submissions that have been submitted that we are awaiting confirmation of the outcome. Febfast We were successful in our submission to be the major partner for Febfast representing NSW and ACT. With matt Noffs we are putting together a marketing plan to increase the numbers of people who sign up to participate in Febfast in both NSW and ACT, ultimately increasing the awareness and support for Ted Noffs. TED – database and Client Management system The TED database and client management system has continued to grow and expand. Some of the upgrades have included Client appointment system, an alerts system, SMS functionality, Integrated groups system, and various new reports. We have also been working with WHOS to build a TED database for their services and are nearing completion on that project. We have learnt a lot from this process and are putting together a business plan to create a social enterprise model to share TED with other NGO’s and services providing benefits for both those services and the TED Noffs Foundation.


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QMS/Systems I was involved in the QMS process and a significant part of this was contributing to the development of new systems to streamline our functions. A good example of this is the introduction of Sharepoint (Microsoft) an information and project management tool to assist with tracking and storage of data, projects issues and issues. Other areas Social Media Training – I developed and presented training on Social Media to youth organisations in the Campbelltown area. Reporting – I managed the various reporting mechanisms to our funding bodies. Budgets - I assisted in the development of the budgets for the foundation.


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Research and Date Annual Report Research and Data Officer: Lisa Webb

Research plays an increasingly important role in the work we do here at Noffs and underpins our ability to deliver the high-quality services that we do. In 2011, we continued to conduct and engage in research to help us more effectively prevent and treat alcohol and other drug issues and the related problems of poor mental health, criminality, unemployment, and homelessness among young Australians. The year in review Our research projects in 2010-11 covered the following areas:

• Measurement of alcohol and other drug treatment outcomes • Prevention of drug and alcohol problems and related at-risk behaviour • The role of staff in a therapeutic community • Smoking reduction

What difference does treatment make? During 2010-11 Noffs continued its involvement with Curtain University as part of the ARC Linkage Study: What difference does treatment make? Psychometric properties of a measure of young people’s progress in residential rehabilitation. The aim of this research is to produce a meaningful outcome measure of young people’s progress in alcohol and other drug treatment. This project began in early 2010, and to date we have seen the completion of phases 1 and 2 – the development of a qualitative framework to assess young people’s progress, and the development of an assessment instrument based on this framework. Throughout 2011, staff and young people in our PALM Sydney unit have been participating in Phase 3 – the data collection phase. This has involved a trial of the outcome measure with young people entering treatment. The Research Team at Curtain University are awaiting the completion of the data collection phase (expected to be December 2011) before data analysis begins. We await initial findings with excitement! The effectiveness of arts-based programs in drug education and prevention Arts-based programs are a popular means for engaging and disseminating information to young people. Indeed, it is a method we find to be extremely effective, particularly with young people experiencing a range of difficult life circumstances that place them at risk of negative life outcomes. However, despite the popularity of arts-based methods, research into the effectiveness of arts-based programs is limited. Because of Noffs’ commitment to evidence-based practice, we sought to summarise the current literature in this area and identify the characteristics of arts-based programs that make them effective. The past six months, with the support of NCPIC (the National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre), has seen the development of two Cochrane Reviews. One, investigating the effectiveness of disseminating alcohol and other drug information through arts; and the second reviewing the effectiveness of arts-based interventions in reducing alcohol and other drug use and related risk variables among at-risk youth. We have found quality research in this area to be limited, as well as incredibly diverse. Nevertheless, findings from these reviews do suggest arts-based intervention programs are at least as effective as traditional forms of drug education and prevention programs, and are more effective than no intervention at all. Arts-based programs also present a key opportunity for engaging at-risk young people who may not engage in other traditional forms


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of self-development, and thus, present an important means for reducing risk-related variables amongst this population. The role of staff in a therapeutic community for adolescents This study was conducted in partnership with the University of New South Wales School of Public Health and Community Medicine as part of the University’s Independent Learning Project (ILP) Program for medical students. During 2010, UNSW medical student Alex Chua and his supervisor Sally Nathan sought to help Noffs explore the formation and dynamics of staff relationships with young people in our therapeutic community (PALM Program) and the possible effects these relationships may have on treatment. A qualitative methodology was used for this study and included semi-structured interviews with staff and young people, and field observations. The study identified several ‘themes’ regarding the role of staff within a therapeutic community for adolescents, including providing a safe, supportive environment, setting boundaries and routine, providing clear communication, the importance of stability, and the understanding that a power differential exists between staff and the young people which plays a vital role in adolescent TCs. Overall, the study found that the therapeutic community is constantly changing and this causes conflict requiring an active effort from staff to help maintain the community. However, it is this conflict and dynamic nature which helps the young people learn important life management skills. The full findings from this study were presented at the 6th International Conference on Drugs and Young People (May 2011), and are currently being drafted for publication in a peer reviewed journal. MHCC funded IGP Smoking Reduction Project This project began in January 2011 and looks at whether counselling and groupwork with or without Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is effective in helping young people in our PALM program reduce their cigarette smoking. The young people can choose to attend groupwork and counselling with or without NRT. If they select NRT they begin a given dosage of NRT (nicotine patches), which is reduced gradually on a fortnightly basis. All participants attend weekly counselling and group meetings aimed at supporting them in their smoking reduction efforts. Participants complete fortnightly assessments to monitor changes in cigarette smoking, dependence and craving, until they depart from PALM, following which point they undergo a follow-up assessment, at 3-months. Data collection is currently underway. Results will be available mid 2012. Moving forward into 2011-12 Moving into 2011-12 the following projects are continuing: What difference does treatment make? Psychometric properties of a measure of young people’s progress in residential rehabilitation. Research partnership with Curtin University.


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MHCC funded IGP Smoking Reduction Project And the following projects are beginning: The development and trial of an integrated MET-CBT intervention for young people with co-occurring depression and cannabis use problems. Funded by NCPIC. Dimensions of Change: identifying characteristics of a therapeutic community which predict retention and post-treatment outcomes among young people in residential rehabilitation. The development and validation of a self-assessment tool for CALM. Partnership with UNSW School of Public Health and Community Medicine.


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Operations and Human Resources Annual Report

Wesley Noffs, CEO Amanda Noffs, COO

Kam Wong, Finance Manager Jo Coombe, HR Co-ordinator

WORKFORCE OVERVIEW During the period of the 30th June 2010 and 30th June 2011 there was a decrease in both full time staff and part-time staff, as displayed in the table and graph below. This was due to the transfer of our programs in Coffs Harbour and Dubbo NSW to Mission Australia.

All Employees by Department The following table and graph shows all employees by department for 30 June 2009-30 June 2010 and -30 June 2011. Employees by Department (Full Time and Part Time)

30 June 2010 30 June 2011

Head Office Administration Fundraising and Development Research Shops

18 3 3 2 0

18 2 2 1 1

Employees on Payroll at

30 June 2010 30 June 2011

Full Time Complement 83 65 Part Time Complement 56 25 Total FTE Permanent Employees

139 90


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Operations Finance Business Development Training Programs Human Resources

1 4 0 1 2 2

1 4 4 1 1 1

PALM SYDNEY 28 22 CALM SYDNEY 0 3 Outclients 8 10 Street Univeristy 13 5 PALM ACT 30 26 CALM ACT 0 2 Gideon Shoes 11 4 Coffs Harbour 23 0 Dubbo 11 0


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Employee Turnover The following tables and graphs shows employee turnover for 30 June 2009-30 June 2010 and 30 June 2010-30 June 2011. Employee turnover 30 June 2010 30 June 2011 Full Time Complement 25 51 Part Time Complement 21 48 Total FTE Permanent Employees turnover

46 99


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Turnover percentage 30 June 2010 30 June 2011 Full Time Complement 54.43% 51.52% Part Time Complement 45.66% 48.48%

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY Occupational Health and Safety Meetings All units are required to participate in monthly Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Committee meetings to discuss incidents and relevant issues via in-house teleconference and video conferencing. All Units and Head Office maintain active OH&S Noticeboards displaying relevant information from both the Head Office and WorkCover. The meetings continue to have a rotating chairperson, and all OH&S representatives share the responsibility of minute taking. Employee Assistance Program The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is the free counselling service provided for staff and their families. The EAP assists with reducing Workers’ Compensation claims for stress and emotional problems. Work-life Balance All managers are encouraged to respect and promote the work-life balance of all unit staff by encouraging flexible working practices. These practices include arrangements to take annual leave on a regular basis. REWARDS AND RECOGNITION Remuneration and Benefits All Unit shift-workers continue to receive an incremental increase each year according to the Modern Sacs SACS) Award. However the government do not fund the increases. The salary sacrifice scheme also continues in its popularity as a program through which staff can utilise their remuneration through a Salary Solutions Card and a Meal and Entertainment Card.


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Salary Benchmarking During the 2010/2011 period, the Ted Noffs Foundation again participated in the Classified Survey Information (CSi) Annual Salary Survey. This report is essential when conducting internal salary benchmarking and recruiting to ensure the Foundation’s competitive advantage as an employer is maintained. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES We continue to ensure all policies and procedures are kept up-to-date and also they were monitored thoroughly for the Quality Management System (QMS) consultation period. A new HR system with reporting system has been introduced alongside a HR Self-Service system for staff and payroll facility. EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK An Employee Handbook continues to be issued to all new employees to help to familiarise them with the organisation’s Vision, Values and Objectives, as well as providing overview of the Ted Noffs Foundation’s history. It gives an outline of the General Terms and Conditions of Employment, Benefits and Welfare, Occupational Health and Safety. The handbook is also is intended to be a reference guide for staff, directing them to the complete collection of Policies and Procedures accessible on the ‘Moodle’. VOLUNTEERS We maintain a team of over 50 dedicated volunteers who continue to support the Foundation through sorting and pricing all donated goods before selling them in the Opportunity Shops at ‘One Noffs’ Randwick. The success of the store in Randwick has allowed us to open additional stores of ‘One Noffs’ in Surry hills and stock ‘One Noffs’ clothes in Bondi Beach Gideon. Regular ‘in-door garages sales’ are continued to be held on a monthly basis as well as Rag sales which allows the processing of older ‘out of season’ stock, and recycle clothing to generate additional income for the Foundation. A bookfair is in the pipeline along with the launch of the new ‘Mega One Noffs Store’ in Surry Hills. We have seen an increase in Corporate Volunteers with organisations from NAB, Kimberley Clarke, Amex and Suncorp helping us with a variety of tasks throughout the Head Office, Units and Gideon. Our annual visit from the University of Wisconsin & Osh Kosh students assisting with marketing at Gideon, accounts, fundraising and Op Shops and a large summer garage sale. YWCA, 3 Local schools of over 35+ young students will be assisting Noffs & Gideon in fundraising and marketing in November and December 2011. We also have 150 corporate volunteers from SAP confirmed for 2012. HUMAN RESOURCE NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANISATION FORUM The Ted Noffs Foundation continues to play an active role in the quarterly Human Resource Forum for Non-Government Organisations. The forum provides a valuable support network, and a great resource for acquiring industry information.


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WORKERS’ COMPENSATION There has been a major reduction in the workers compensation claims this financial year. Two Workers’ Compensation claims have been processed and both were declined in the last financial year. One claim remains open from the previous financial year and is due to be closed shortly.


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SUPPORT SERVICES ANNUAL REPORT 2011 Finance Manager: Kam Wong

FINANCIAL REPORT The total revenue received for the Ted Noffs Foundation (Ted Noffs Trust) for 2010/2011 was $10,117,204. This represents an increase of $634,682 (6.7%) from last year. We will carry forward – grants not yet spent – into 2011/2012 $29,196. Total expenditure increased by $884,919 (8.5%) to $10,347,632 over the same period. Thus we have a deficit of $230,428. Non-government revenue generated through fundraising and other sources1 was $1,580,573. This represents an increase of 7% from last year’s. This is largely due to a $350,000 donation from a related trust. GOVERNMENT REPORT COMMONWEALTH DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND AGEING The Ted Noffs Foundation has been pleased to receive continuing grants for the following projects: PALM East Residential – funding, directed towards the program based at Randwick for this financial year was $365,864. This project has been operating in Randwick since 1995 (16 years) and is funded jointly by four government departments – NSW Health, NSW DOCS, Commonwealth Department Of Health And Ageing and NSW Dept of Juvenile Justice. PALM ACT Residential – This residential program situated at Watson in Canberra commenced in February 2001. The Commonwealth funding for the year was $874,226 and is jointly funded with the ACT Government Department of Health. ACT Community Outreach & Out Clients Program (CO-OP) – This program provides support to young people experiencing problems with alcohol and drug use, in a non-residential environment. The funding for the year from the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing was $258,472. Capacity Building Grants Program –from the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aging (DOHA). This funding for Ted Noffs - for a 3 year program started in 2007/2008 – is to fund the provision of improved services for people who have both drug and alcohol and mental health issues. The funding for the year from the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing was $235,140. NSW DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY SERVICES (DOCS) PALM EAST Residential - This project has been operating for the past 16 years and continues to be funded jointly by four government departments. The success of this program led to the establishment of similar residential programs in Canberra, Coffs Harbour and Dubbo although the programs at Coffs Harbour and Dubbo were closed in April 2011 due to the loss of funding. The funding by DoCS for the 2010/2011 year was $274,710. Nepean Adolescent Family Program – This is a continuing program funded (since 1990) by DoCS. Funding for the 2009/2010 year was $91,914. GITS - Getting it together scheme - This project commenced in February 2001 and the funding for the 2010/2011 year was $109,212.

1 Includes op shop sales, interest, resident contributions, & external training fees etc.


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NSW DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH South East Sydney Area Health Service PALM Sydney– This project has been operating for the past 16 years in Randwick and is jointly funded by four government departments. The funding for the 2010/2011 year was $260,000. Western Sydney Area Health Service PALM Sydney– 2010/2011 year was $1,075,600. (Total funding from NSW Health $1,335,600) NSW DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE The AOD Family Worker Project – This project has been operating for 12 years. We are currently employing two family counsellors. The funding for the year was $119,240. PALM Coffs Harbour – This residential program commenced in September 2001. The funding for this year was $950,046 before it was terminated in early April 2001. PALM Dubbo – This residential program commenced in April 2002. The funding for the year was $887,637 before it was terminated in early April 2001. NSW DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING (DET) The Schools Counselling Program NSW – This project has been operational for 13 years. The funding supports psychologists who provide counselling in 18 Government High Schools in Sydney metro East and West; and six Central Coast high schools. The funding for this year was $314,897. ACT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND COMMUNITY CARE PALM ACT – This residential program situated in Canberra, commenced in February 2001. It is jointly funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing and the ACT Department of Health and Community Care. The ACT Department of Health this year contributed $312,936 to this program, as well as providing premises from which to operate. ACT Diversion funding – ACT Health also provide diversion funding to PALM ACT this year the department contributed $3,360. Adolescent Drug Withdrawal Unit ACT (ADWU) - This Unit, co-located with PALM ACT in Canberra, commenced in January 2002. The funding from the ACT Government Department of Health and Community Care for this year was $735,024. The ADWU assists young people who are experiencing difficulties relating to their alcohol and/or drug use to achieve a drug-free status within a supportive and supervised drug- free environment. ACT Aftercare – Funding from the ACT Department of Health and Community Care supports the Aftercare component of PALM ACT. The funding for the 2010/2011 year was $103,506 to support the operation and a full-time Outreach Youth Worker. COMMONWEALTH ATTORNEY–GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT HipHoperations Project – Funding from the Commonwealth Attorney-General’s Department for the 2010/2011 year was $119,000. The Crime Prevention funding - $495,000 over three years - from Federal Attorney–General’s department for the Hiphoperations project. This program combines art and music programs for young people run out of the “Street Uni”™ at Liverpool and other locations such as Kalumbaroo in Western Australia –


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NON GOVERNMENT SUPPORT The Club Managers' Association Australia –The CMAA has provided most essential support to Ted Noffs for the past nineteen years. We are most grateful to all Club Managers, who have so passionately supported our work, for the last 19 years and for their big-hearted contributions. Our programs could not have developed without the significant support of the CMAA. Like last year, this year has not been easy for Clubs – especially the NSW Clubs. The financial climate continues to be severely affected and Clubs are not unscathed. Managers are suffering to keep their Clubs going; and their local communities supported; let alone assisting in raising funds for organisations such as ours. This year Clubs helped raise $129,150 through the CDSE. Eastern Suburbs Leagues Club (Easts) –Ted Noffs is very fortunate that East’s Leagues Club gives us use of their building - the old Post Office in Randwick. We are now almost into our 11th year of occupation. Easts contribution towards repayments for the building is $170,000 pa. Ted Noffs uses the building for its Head Office Operations; Clinical Services, Training and Research and last but not least ASK! A Free Legal Service for young people. We are most grateful to East’s. Mounties Club – In year 2006-07 Mounties purchased a $1.5m warehouse in Liverpool for the use of Ted Noffs Foundation as a “Street University”™. The same peppercorn rental arrangement has been implemented as East’s Leagues club have with Ted Noffs. This is a new initiative for Ted Noffs and work at a cost of $835,000 was completed during year 2008-09 to make this service a community service for the local young people in the area. Participation rate is high as the young people are inspired by the variety of activities and programs available on site. The Property Industry Foundation - has supported the Street Uni at Liverpool by donating funds for a coordinator plus payments towards building costs committing $125,000 towards building costs. Donations received for the year 2010/2011 for the coordinator were $75,000. Phillip Adams - launched a campaign through his column in the Weekend Australian magazine in year 2006-07 to raise funds for the “Street University”™. The campaign has raised over $218,000 in the last five years so far. We are very grateful for this support as Phillip has been a great friend of Ted Noffs and a mentor to Matt Noffs. United Way – A donation of $100 to assist the Vocational/Education activities at Palm Sydney was received for the year. Support from United Way has been forthcoming for over 7 years and our sincere thanks to the United Way team for their support. Mallesons Stephen Jaques (Mallesons) - ASK! A Free Legal Service for Youth - Our partnership with Mallesons, through ASK! A Free Legal Service for Youth2 continues and strengthened this year. ASK! A Legal Service for Youth operates every other week at our Head Office in Randwick. Ask! has been in operation for ten years. Not only do we have this support but also Mallesons’ lawyers have donated $7,884 to Ted Noffs Foundations’ programs this year; through their Workplace Giving Program. We are forever grateful for this wonderful ongoing support – especially in such tough times. Reserve Bank of Australia – This year we received $8,600 donations from the Reserve Bank of Australia through its workplace giving program. We are extremely grateful for such generosity and support.

2 ASK! Stands for “Advice Service and Knowledge”


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Baker & McKenzie – Ted Noffs is extremely grateful for the support that Baker and McKenzie provide. Their pro bono employment law advice, training and support has been considerable over the last 5 years; our heartfelt thanks for their excellent support. Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) This year we received donations through workplace giving programs. This is administered through CAF- (Charities Aid Foundation); companies such as Westpac and Boston Consulting. Cross City Tunnel donated funds for the new project Fake is Fraud which we operate in partnership with NSW Police. This is an exciting project and we are hoping the funding period of two years at $50,000 per annum will be effective. The funding will terminate by the end of December 2011. OneNoffs and Warehouse – Randwick In June 2008 we leased a second shop in Alison Road, Randwick – which we have called “OneNoffs”. Opportunity Noffs provides a vital service for the community – which is mostly comprised of students and pensioners: and also raises much needed funds to help our work. In its first full year of operation revenue raised was $70,755. When we needed space to house our new Calm Sydney program early in the year, we moved the OneNoffs operation to merge with that of our Warehouse style shop in Randwick that was opened in November 2009. This went smoothly and the warehouse style shop raised $87,043 during the year. Residents’ Contributions Again this year we thank our residents for making financial contributions towards our PALM programs. This year PALM residents’ total contribution was $110,368. Other Benefactors in 2010/2011 Ted Noffs acknowledges the support from individuals, families, clubs and community organisations, trusts and foundations and the corporate sector, together with the many individual donations received during the year. There have also been numerous other donations of various amounts from individuals from all areas of the community, and these donations and support are greatly appreciated, enabling us to carry on our important work in the community, particularly with young people in need. NON- GOVERNMENT INCOME The following activities were carried out to raise funds for the organisation: $ Events/Activities/Appeals/Merchandise 353,544 Opportunity Noffs Shop sales 148,579 Clubs, CDSE, Trusts & Foundations 488,169 Donation from related Trust 350,000 Resident Contributions 110,368 Workforce Development/Training pkges/Presentation &other fees 45.026 Interest 83,748 TOTAL 1,579,434


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THE STREET UNIVERSITY ANNUAL REPORT 2011 Manager: Delise Kerehona

St University, Liverpool

The Street University has continued to develop itself into a dynamic creative and educational space for young people in the area. THE SPACE & YOUNG PEOPLE The Street University has experienced rapid growth in service users and community engagement with service providers from South Western regional areas. This year we’ve seen an average of 300 young people per week. However, during the school holiday breaks, our weekly numbers increase to 500 young people per week. Community events attract a large number of young people from the wider Sydney & New South Wales region. At any given event we are home to anywhere between 250 to 350 young people.

St University, Liverpool

A) ROAM Communities Mental Health Nursing This year we have established both a mobile and a walk-in mental health clinic. ROAM Communities Mental Health Nursing is a nurse led health promotion charity, which provides mobile outreach to people suffering mental illness from vulnerable/marginalised populations in South West Sydney. ROAM mental health nurses provide mobile clinical services at times and locations accessible to vulnerable groups such as homeless, youth and indigenous populations. As part of its care-model, ROAM has established a mental e-health nursing clinic at Liverpool Boys High School on Tuesdays and the Street University on Wednesdays. Whilst here on site at The Street University, ROAM conducts The BOOST program, which addresses substance abuse and mental health issues. B) Mural Showcase Wall We have also upgraded our facilities to ensure that our creative arts based programs continue to inspire young people to engage with the space. We now have a showcase mural wall, which provides our visual artists with an adequate professional space to express themselves. The participants of our street visual art program have utilized the wall as part of their training as contemporary visual artists. Furthermore, the mural wall has become a main


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feature in promoting and exposing live performance of street art to the community in a positive and productive way. C) Community Engagement, development and events Our events have diversified to reach a wider audience, and to accommodate the needs of the young community. We held and were directly engaged in over 20 events this year, both internal and external. These events provide an opportunity for our young people to engage with the wider community. At each event, our youth positively contributed in some capacity either by performing or volunteering to assist the community event. D) Room and Facility Booking Systems Young people who are hungry for opportunities are utilizing our space every day. As a result, it was necessary for us to upgrade our rooms and facilities booking systems to enable us to keep track of how many young people we are seeing, what rooms they are using and what programs they are engaging in. This allows us to efficiently and accurately evaluate our growth. It also allows us to evaluate the successes and challenges of our programs. E) Gideon Shoes Store Our sister organization, Gideon Shoes, launched an onsite store in June of this year. The store stocks Gideon Shoes and clothing/apparel with exclusive Street University designs. The store promotes ethical shopping practices to young people as Gideon Shoes operates purely on an ethical basis by utilizing Australian fair labour practices and homegrown resources. PARNTERSHIPS AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT There’s been a great emphasis in “community capacity building” leading initiatives delivered in partnership with key stakeholders. A) Hero Project with Powerhouse Youth Theatre The Hero Project used three street art mediums to explore themes surrounding heroism in our day to day lives – spray art, parkour and large scale puppetry. Powerhouse Youth Theatre partnered with two youth organizations and art centre’s in the South Western region to deliver this project. The project offered young people a series of unique opportunities to participate in the artistic and cultural dialogues of their community. It involved them learning a range of skills that are pertinent to many career pursuits. Through the examination of the central theme of heroism in the context of ordinary life it gave voice to a number of issues surrounding the experiences of young lives growing up in culturally diverse and possibly disenfranchised communities. Through the artistic explorations and activities of this project the participants gained a sense of empowerment through skills development and self expression. The development of the piece saw a range of young people of diverse backgrounds and interests coming together to work as a creative team, to produce a public performance outcome which served to promote and celebrate community harmony and the bonds between neighbours. B) In The House Project. Partnership with the Sydney Opera House, the Department of Juvenile Justice and Blacktown Arts Centre The Sydney Opera is one of the nation’s leading arts organisations and venues. The In The House Project provided support and positive pathways for young people who were recently


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released from Juvenile Justice Detention Centres. The program focused on building the self-esteem and confidence of the participants via art workshops led by The Street University’s street art facilitator, Matthew Peet (also known as Mistery), and hip-hop artist and actor Candy Bowers. The program also offered the participants work experience, and job-readiness workshops and talks. For The Street University, we recognized the importance of being able to connect with high caliber services such as the Sydney Opera House and the Department of Juvenile Justice. C) Mind Field. Partnership with Liverpool City Council, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and the National Rugby League (NRL) The Mind Field is a unique music collaboration that provided young people (between the ages of 15-25) with the opportunity to record a music CD with NRL stars such as Eric Grothe Jr. (Parramatta Eels), Dene Halatau (Canterbury Bulldogs), Sam Perrett (Sydney Roosters), Kevin Gordon (Gold Coast Titans), Mickey Paea (Canterbury Bulldogs), Daniel Vidot (Canberra Raiders), Junior Tia-Kilifi (Canterbury Bulldogs) and Joe Galuvao (Manly Sea Eagles). The young people will also receive the opportunity to perform at the 2012 NRL Grand Final. Mind Field is a 12-month program. The Street University will open the window of opportunity for our young people who have a music background to participate in this state of the art program. One of the finalists in the program is a young artist from the Street University. D) Casula for Kids Festival Program. Partnership with Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and Liverpool City Council Liverpool City Council and Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre produced Western Sydney’s first ever festival dedicated to children aged between 6 to 12 years old. The festival included the New South Wales premiere performances of two acclaimed kids productions, This [Baby] Life – a theatre show created especially for babies aged 4-18 months, and Tangled Web – an interactive elastic artwork kids of all ages can create together. There was also films, music and dance performances as well as art making and drama workshops all in an atmosphere designed to encourage creativity and imagination. The Street University ran two workshops as part of the festival: Strictly Word! Poetry and Hip-Hop Dance! This opportunity allowed us to engage with a much younger age group. E) Australian National Poetry Slam with Word Travels and Information Cultural Exchange (ICE) Poetry events are held frequently in the café as a means for young people to express themselves in an intimate yet safe environment. Our most recent poetry event was run in partnership with ICE (Information Cultural Exchange) and Word Travels for the Australian National Poetry Slam. For two years running we have hosted the South West Sydney Heat from the national competition. Our young people were able to participate and compete for a spot in the New South Wales State Finals. F) Partnership with Information Cultural Exchange (ICE) During the busy April school holidays, The Street University hosted a two-day workshop that featured performances ranging from acapella, song and rap to multimedia projections, paintings and illustrations. It was a unique Western Sydney hip-hop extravaganza. This production ran for a total of six weeks. It was an eclectic mix of hip-hop, electronic beats and fresh new urban sounds, set against the backdrop of captivating visuals from the regions where the artists originated.


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It was effective in showcasing established and up-and-coming artists who were able to tell their stories; sharing some of their creative treasures. Hip Hop Projections was something of an international flavour as it featured an international hip hop artist and literary author, The Narcicyst, from Canada who actively worked together with those from Sydney’s South Western Region. Hip Hop Projections 6 was produced through ICE’s Urban Cultures Project, supported by Auburn Community Development Network, The Hills Holroyd Parramatta Migrant Resource Centre, The Street University and Penrith City Council. The Street University also assisted ICE with their open day in November. Our staff and young people were able to contribute to the community event by hosting a barbeque. G) Girls Space facilitated by Rosebank Rosebank ran a program called Girls Space at the Street University throughout the year. The program was aimed at promoting healthier relationships through art/diversional therapy. STAFF At present we currently have four staff members that include a fulltime manager, fulltime youth worker, part time workshop facilitator and part time programs coordinator. Our team may be small in numbers; however our staff members are recognised as experts in their fields.

Street University, Liverpool

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