headspace Youth Reference Group (Volunteer Opportunity)

The Youth Reference Group, or YRG, gives young people the opportunity to be heard, offer input and feedback on our service and advocate for young people experiencing difficulties with their mental health. This role is open to anyone with lived experience surrounding mental health. This can include your own experience with mental illness or supporting others. We are looking to connect with young people from all walks of life.

We are looking for young people aged between 16 – 25 who are interested in volunteering their time to advocate for youth mental health and wellbeing in the local area. We would love to hear from you if you:

• Have lived experience with mental ill health or mental health variation (this could be your personal experience, work experience or experience of someone you know or care for)
• Are passionate about promoting youth mental health and wellbeing
• Have the ability to think about the big picture
• Have the ability to work in a team and participate in group discussions, as well as work independently
• Are motivated and willing to participate on an ongoing basis
• Have good communication skills and the ability to balance your personal needs and the commitment to the group.

Youth Reference Group members do vital work to keep our service running, including:

• Providing feedback on headspace Orange services and programs
• Offering insight around how young people experience and navigate support services, including headspace Orange
• Suggesting, and helping to implement, programs and events
• Giving feedback about local youth and health services.

Joining the YRG group will give you the opportunity to:

• Have your say on headspace Orange’s services and programs
• Meet other young people who are passionate about youth mental health and wellbeing
• Develop a range of skills including working in groups and representing the needs of your peers
• Receive training in mental health, alcohol and other drugs, media and other areas specific to your interests.

Youth Reference Group members do vital work to keep our service relevant to young people. Member responsibilities include:

• Participating in fortnightly meetings on a regular basis
• Undertaking training about headspace, mental health, mental illness and talking to the media
• Participating in teleconferences, email and Facebook discussions
• Leading and supporting local headspace activities

Some members may choose to:

• Become community advocates for youth mental health which will raise awareness of youth mental health, encourage young people to seek help early and to educate the broader community about mental health and wellbeing
• Be involved in community education activities
• Become a media spokesperson to advocate for youth mental health and wellbeing
• Speak at public functions, local schools, mental health forums or conferences.

By joining the Youth Reference Group you will be given opportunities in both personal development and training. This is your chance to:

• Build connections with other young people and have a positive impact on your community
• Advocate on behalf of your peers and community
• Get some experience in marketing and promotion
• Participate in training opportunities
• Gain a huge amount of experience to add to your resume!

You will be given opportunities to develop your skills in the following areas:

• Mental health
• Alcohol and other drugs
• Leadership and communication
• Project management
• Talking to the media
• Speaking in public
• Any other areas you are specifically interested in.

Time required

The appointment of headspace Orange YRG members is for a 12-month period. There are fortnightly meetings organised at a time that best suits members. However, members may join on a more casual basis if it better suits them and this can be discussed during the application process.