Perth Inner City Youth Service (PICYS) have launched a new resource and referral guide for LGBTIQ+ young people experiencing homelessness.
Revealed at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting this week, Where Can I Go? was developed by PICYS in conjunction with YouthLink and TransFolk of WA.
The project was also supported by the City of Perth and the Rainbow HAND (Homeless Ally Network for Diversity) project. The Rainbow HAND provides support for youth sector workers seeking to improve their capacity for supporting LGBTIQ+ young folks.
LGBTIQ+ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness in Australia, and Where Can I Go? is informed by research conducted by Pride Foundation Australia and the University of Melbourne which identified key recommendations and strategies for bringing LGBTIQ+ inclusivity to combatting homelessness.
“For many years Perth Inner City Youth Service (or PICYS as it’s fondly known) has been acknowledged as the “go to service” for young LGBTIQ people experiencing homelessness in Perth metro area, and whilst this has been positive we need a better whole of community response,” PICYS Executive Officer Andrew Hall said in a statement.
“In launching the “Where Can I Go?” resource I acknowledge the fabulous contributions of so many individual champions and agencies who are committed to a better community for these wonderful young people.”
Where Can I Go? is available online now at transfolkofwa.org. You can also find more information at picys.org.au
