YA Isolation II: Suggestions for the Reduction on “Isolation”
This one is open for comments that (well all comments, but geared towards) both explore ways to to overcome the isolation and to comment on a constructive set of ideas to address the issue. Regardless, if you’re having issues talk to Nikki (nikki@inspire.org.au) or Janice or Kerry, whose emails I don’t have on hand. In an attempt to be constructivist, I’m throwing out this idea for the masses, and frankly, it’s up to you goes whether or not it goes anywhere. It’s on YAs to find a solution, so if you’re in a situation where you feel isolated, you should be working out ways that YOU THINK isolation could be averted (atleast somewhat), because as I said in the previous post, it’s likely to worsen with the influx of YAs.
Here goes (it’s a bit disjointed and needs more work obviously, but that’s where you guys come in).
1. Staff ties with YAs: If I remember correctly there was talk a while back when discussing (in the early phases) the new YP program, of having “isolated” (geographically, as discussed at the time) YAs linked with staff to get support when they need it. This would be an excellent system to impliment, even though staff will be faced with (in theory) more work
2. YA ties: Setting up a “team” system, where small groups (2-4) of YAs from varying areas (not necessarily completely workable due to the way the YAs are split across the nation) that will remain in place until people leave. Like the ROYL system, it will be about supporting eachother, but instead of a mentor system, it’s more to do with, helping eachother find resources, finding the “courage” to approach places for activities etc.
3. Overhaul of YL Setup: ROYLs need to be looked at, and there needs to be further incentives to ensure that they (if they are to still be used under the new system) remain active in the 6 weeks that they are tied to new YAs. There have been varying reports about the effectiveness and committment of YLs and whilst it’s never going to be perfect, it’s a valuable system, and without it, new participants may struggle even moreso.
4. Fostering an open forum: It’s difficult to do this, but currently, there seems to be a mob mentality, where if a person doesn’t agree with the outlined proposals, they are looked down upon, ideas are overlooked and questions are raised about the constructive nature of their posts. It’s important to create a safe forum (ie discussion) where people feel comfortable expressing their opinions. This was a buzz topic a while back (early 08) but it was seemingly overlooked after that short period. Whilst there is never going to be 100% cohesion, it needs to be addressed becaused without this being reduced/stopped, disenchantment is going to worsen.
5. Assistance to setup projects: Staff being able to help YAs setup school presentations, ties with companies etc in areas relevant to that of the YA requesting (or in the general vicinity, ie potentially Perth for WA) so being able to do “something major” is easier for all YAs to do
I’m sure there are more, but they are the 5 that come to mind currently. Post ideas/comments/whatever. I’m really keen to here from as many YAs as possible, so tell yo franz.
