From 1-7 September 2024, National Child Protection Week shines a spotlight on the theme ‘Every Conversation Matters’, reinforcing the ongoing message that ‘Every child in every community needs a fair go.’
This theme underscores the power of conversations in safeguarding the well-being of children, young and vulnerable people. Conversations are not just exchanges of words; they are tools that build understanding, craft solutions, and foster connections within communities. These interactions are vital across all levels—from children and their caregivers to decision-makers and the communities they serve.
In alignment with this theme, Y Whittlesea’s LA Stars program exemplifies the profound impact of conversation, particularly within the context of leadership and advocacy for young people with additional support needs.
LA Stars is more than just a program; it’s a platform that empowers young and vulnerable people to take control of their future by developing leadership skills and advocating for themselves and their peers. This is one of the important ways in which Y Whittlesea opens up space for young people with a disability to advise on and influence issues that concern their community.
Empowering Through Conversations
LA Stars highlights the importance of conversation in leadership and advocacy. Participants, who are secondary school—young adults, meet fortnightly to engage in discussions that not only develop leadership skills but also empower them to influence the decisions and policies of the Y. These conversations are crucial as they allow young people to voice their concerns, share their perspectives, and contribute to creating a safer and more inclusive community. Ultimately, our vision at the Y is to build a better world, with and for young people.
The program’s focus on leadership development is bound with the idea that every conversation matters. By equipping young people with the tools to advocate for themselves and others, as well as providing a safe space to practice this, LA Stars fosters a culture where every voice is heard and valued. This aligns with the theme of National Child Protection Week, which encourages all of us to engage in meaningful conversations that drive change and ensure that every child in every community has a fair go.
Building Connections and Crafting Solutions
Conversations within LA Stars are not limited to the group of participants. The program encourages interaction with a broader community, including caregivers, teachers, doctors, and other professionals.
These interactions help build social connections that are essential for the well-being of young people. By bringing together various stakeholders, LA Stars creates a network of support that amplifies the voices of young people with disabilities and ensures their concerns are addressed.
LA Stars meets fortnightly on a Monday between 5.30-7pm at Y-Space in Epping, Victoria. This location provides a safe and inclusive environment where participants can freely express themselves and engage in conversations that matter.
The structured setting, with a 1:5 staff ratio, ensures that each participant receives the attention and support they need.
Let’s Start a New Conversation
As we reflect on the theme ‘Every Conversation Matters’, it’s clear that conversations are at the heart of creating a safer, more inclusive world for all children and young and vulnerable people. Programs like LA Stars demonstrate how speaking up and speaking together can empower young people to become leaders and advocates within their communities. Whether through formal programs like LA Stars or everyday interactions, every conversation matters in the journey toward a society where all children, young and vulnerable people are safe.
This National Child Protection Week, let’s recognise the importance of every conversation and commit to creating spaces where young people can speak up and be heard.
Conversations between:
…children and their caregivers matter (from the very earliest days)
…children and their peers matter
…families with teachers, doctors, and other professionals matter
…friends or neighbours matter
…decision-makers and the communities they serve matter.
For more resources and information: National Child Protection Week – NAPCAN