T25 - An Innovative, Opportunistic Model of Engaging and Supporting At-Risk Young People
Tracks
Marquis Room - In-Person Only
| Thursday, May 28, 2026 |
| 11:05 AM - 11:25 AM |
Overview
Sandy Lendrum, Directions Health Services Ltd
Details
Three Key Learnings
1. Opportunistic engagement with an environment of inclusivity and acceptance fosters engagement with young people.
2. Holistic, wrap-around support model leads to positive outcomes.
3. Flexible, needs-based response valued by young people.
1. Opportunistic engagement with an environment of inclusivity and acceptance fosters engagement with young people.
2. Holistic, wrap-around support model leads to positive outcomes.
3. Flexible, needs-based response valued by young people.
Speaker
Ms Sandy Lendrum
Nurse Practitioner / Program Lead T25 Clinic
Directions Health Services Ltd
T25 - An Innovative, Opportunistic Model of Engaging and Supporting At-Risk Young People
Abstract
Directions Health Services’ T25 Clinic is an innovative, local, integrated health and wellbeing service for young people at risk of or engaging in early substance use, demonstrating strong outcomes
The T25 Clinic adopts a person-centred approach, working with young people to identify and pursue their individual health and wellbeing goals. Young people are encouraged to bring their full selves to the service, fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. Staff are trained in trauma-informed care, working with diversity and cultural competency, ensuring services are delivered in a manner that is respectful and affirming of diverse identities and experiences.
These Tier 1 Primary Health supports also place high importance on assessing the holistic needs of young people. Young people identified with high and complex needs and co-occurring needs are referred to the Tier 2 Wellbeing Team for further assessment and support regarding their general wellbeing.
The Tier 2 Wellbeing Team provide a tailored wrap around support through case management, further health/AOD education, mental health support, and tailored outreach support to address any unique requirements.
47% of the young people who accessed the primary health service also accessed the Tier 2 wrap around support and engaged in mental health supports, AOD supports, or psychosocial support planning.
Outcomes for clients have indicated strong results for the young people, with validated measures indicating positive improvements across a range of life domains:
K5 - 29% decrease in psychological distress
My Life Tracker:
General Wellbeing - 51% positive increase
Day to Day Activities - 123% positive increase
Coping with Life - 61% positive increase
Relationships with Family - 206% positive increase
Relationships with Friends - 14% positive increase
Mental Health Self Rating - 63% positive increase
Quality of Life Self Rating - 56% positive increase
Physical Health Self Rating - 22% positive increase
The T25 Clinic adopts a person-centred approach, working with young people to identify and pursue their individual health and wellbeing goals. Young people are encouraged to bring their full selves to the service, fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. Staff are trained in trauma-informed care, working with diversity and cultural competency, ensuring services are delivered in a manner that is respectful and affirming of diverse identities and experiences.
These Tier 1 Primary Health supports also place high importance on assessing the holistic needs of young people. Young people identified with high and complex needs and co-occurring needs are referred to the Tier 2 Wellbeing Team for further assessment and support regarding their general wellbeing.
The Tier 2 Wellbeing Team provide a tailored wrap around support through case management, further health/AOD education, mental health support, and tailored outreach support to address any unique requirements.
47% of the young people who accessed the primary health service also accessed the Tier 2 wrap around support and engaged in mental health supports, AOD supports, or psychosocial support planning.
Outcomes for clients have indicated strong results for the young people, with validated measures indicating positive improvements across a range of life domains:
K5 - 29% decrease in psychological distress
My Life Tracker:
General Wellbeing - 51% positive increase
Day to Day Activities - 123% positive increase
Coping with Life - 61% positive increase
Relationships with Family - 206% positive increase
Relationships with Friends - 14% positive increase
Mental Health Self Rating - 63% positive increase
Quality of Life Self Rating - 56% positive increase
Physical Health Self Rating - 22% positive increase
Biography
Sandy Lendrum is a Nurse Practitioner from Canberra, recognised for her expertise, compassion, and leadership in healthcare. As the Team Lead of T25, she is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care and fostering a supportive, collaborative team environment. With extensive clinical experience and a passion for continuous improvement, Sandy champions evidence-based practice and innovation in nursing. Her commitment to mentoring others and promoting professional development has made her a respected figure among colleagues and patients alike. Driven by a genuine desire to improve health outcomes, Sandy continues to make a meaningful impact within her community and the broader healthcare field