A TRAINING day will help those working in the front line with young people direct them to the right help and advice they need to deal with issues.
 
That’s the hope of the Department of Education and Children’s Youth Service, which is inviting teachers, youth workers, sports coaches and other professionals who come into contact with young people to take part in the event on Saturday 3rd March.
 
Get Geared Up will be held at Tynwald Mills between 9.30am and 3pm and is free to attend.
 
Ken Callister, Principal Youth Officer, said young people facing difficulties are usually referred to specialist services by those they confide it, be it a teacher, a headteacher, a youth worker or someone they meet through a hobby or sport.
 
Agencies and charities that offer young people help and advice over alcohol, drugs, health and wellbeing, relationships and other issues will be present at the training day to outline their services and offer advice and guidance to those young people go to in a crisis.
 
Those working with young people often feel more confident about signposting to specialist services when they know the individuals involved, Ken said.
 
Some services receive public funding, so it is important front line staff use them to their maximum potential and are aware of what help is available to young people and who they should contact to arrange it.
 
‘To ensure young people have access to the best support and advice available to them, it helps to ensure those working closely with them know what the different agencies offer and who the contacts are and we aim to increase this knowledge and strengthen these contacts through this event,’ Ken said.
 
If you wish to take part, ring the Youth Service on 686057 or email youthservice@doe.sch.im
 
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