Turning Insights into Impact: Youth inclusion in decision making for Mental Health
Tracks
Ballroom 1 - In Person & Online
Tuesday, March 19, 2024 |
10:50 AM - 11:10 AM |
Ballroom 1 |
Overview
Katie Acheson & Abi Cooper, batyr
Details
Presentation Key Learnings
• Global Insights: Discover successful approaches from Canada, the UK, Switzerland, and Jordan on involving young people in mental health decision-making.
• Actionable Guide: Receive a practical guide with clear steps for organisations to engage young people in decision-making, governance, and budget allocation.
• Improved Mental Health: Understand how including youth voices can lead to better mental health outcomes for the entire community, especially addressing youth mental health challenges.
Speaker
Ms Katie Acheson
Ceo
batyr Australia
Turning Insights into Impact: Youth inclusion in decision making for Mental Health
Abstract
Addressing the escalating challenges of mental ill health among young Australians is paramount, given that 75% of mental health conditions manifest before the age of 25. While federal and state governments, alongside health and community organisations, have recognised the urgency of this issue, involving young people in designing programs and giving them a voice in discussions remains a formidable challenge. The inherent limitations of youth, characterised by their age and limited work experience, often exclude them from decision-making spaces.
This presentation will share the insights garnered from a 2023 Churchill Fellowship. Drawing from experiences shared by organisations, government departments, and foundations, we explore how various countries, including Canada, the UK, Switzerland, and Jordan, have successfully upskilled and integrated young people and communities with lived experiences into decision-making processes, governance structures, and budget allocation.
By distilling these global best practices, this session offers a practical guide for organisations seeking to actively involve young people in decision-making processes. The ultimate goal is to foster improved mental health outcomes within the wider community. The presentation will equip attendees with actionable strategies and case studies that can be applied to enhance youth engagement, amplifying their voices in crucial decisions that shape the future of mental health initiatives.
This presentation will share the insights garnered from a 2023 Churchill Fellowship. Drawing from experiences shared by organisations, government departments, and foundations, we explore how various countries, including Canada, the UK, Switzerland, and Jordan, have successfully upskilled and integrated young people and communities with lived experiences into decision-making processes, governance structures, and budget allocation.
By distilling these global best practices, this session offers a practical guide for organisations seeking to actively involve young people in decision-making processes. The ultimate goal is to foster improved mental health outcomes within the wider community. The presentation will equip attendees with actionable strategies and case studies that can be applied to enhance youth engagement, amplifying their voices in crucial decisions that shape the future of mental health initiatives.
Biography
Katie Acheson is a passionate youth advocate, with over two decades of experience. As the Executive Manager of Policy and Advocacy at Arafmi, Co-founder of Numbers and People Synergy, and former Chair of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition, she has played a pivotal role in advocating for young people's interests at state, national, and international levels. Katie was awarded the Bob and June Prickett Churchill Fellowship in 2023 and named Financial Review's Woman of Influence in 2019. She dedicated to championing the expertise of young people and advocating for tailored solutions to their specific needs.
Abi Cooper
Youth Mental Health Advocate
Youth Mental Health Advocate
Turning Insights into Impact: Youth inclusion in decision making for Mental Health
Biography
Abi is a youth mental health advocate passionate about amplifying the voices of young people. At 22 years of age, Abi has worked with a number of organisations including Orygen, Consumers Health Forum, Wellways and the QLD Mental Health Commission, and has been recognised for her work as the 2022 recipient of the Jude Bugeja Peer Experience Award. Abi uses her own story of mental ill-health to reduce stigma and promote awareness, speaking in schools and at events. Her lived experience as a young person provides her with unique expertise in order to advocate for young people and advise on organisational policy and procedures.
Moderator
Julia Cutler
Senior Event Manager
AST Management
Shinade Hartman
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AST Management
Presenter
Katie Acheson
Ceo
batyr Australia
Abi Cooper
Youth Mental Health Advocate
Youth Mental Health Advocate
Session Chair
Nicola Palfey
National Clinical Manager
Headspace Schools
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