East Brisbane refurbishment – more than just youth housing
BY SIMONE WORTHING
Six self-contained apartments from The Salvation Army’s youth housing stock in East Brisbane have been refurbished and transformed into contemporary homes for young women aged 17-22 who are building pathways towards stability, education and independence.
The six self-contained apartments and a shared youth hub, reopened earlier this month, will offer more than just a single-bedroom unit to their tenants.
Through the provision of safe housing, trauma-informed support, case management, life skills development, community connection, and pathways to education, training and employment, young women will be supported by the Queensland Youth Services team to build the confidence, resilience and skills they need to thrive.
“The architecture and interiors of the properties are thoughtfully designed and organised to ensure trauma and psychologically informed spaces that foster health and wellbeing,” said Rob Ellis, Queensland State Manager for Youth Services.
“These design features include easy access to natural light and air quality, an abundance of plant life and an edible garden, opportunities for onsite exercise and physical activity, and communal spaces designed to enhance social connectedness among residents and Youth Services support staff such as a barbecue area.
“The program provides a safe, supportive accommodation option while facilitating active engagement and participation in education and training until successful completion.
“All participants are provided with living skills to successfully transition into and maintain independent housing within the community.”
This work is made possible through a partnership between The Salvation Army, the Viertel Foundation and the Property Industry Foundation, giving young women experiencing or at risk of homelessness have the opportunity to build a bright new future.
READ MORE: Social housing project opens in Toowoomba
