Barwon Health has been engaged to deliver healthcare services to young people at the new Cherry Creek Youth Justice Centre.
From August 2023, the new facility, which is funded and managed by the Department of Justice and Community Safety, will accommodate young men who are sentenced or on remand between 15-17 years.
Barwon Health’s Public Health and Primary Care co-director Deborah Kay said the service’s vision was to offer a range of comprehensive culturally safe services tailored to the needs of the young people at Cherry Creek.
“We will work with the young people to build knowledge, health literacy, resilience and trusted relationships while preserving dignity and enhancing health outcomes,” she said.
“We know that young people need to be engaged and empowered to understand their own health needs and treatment options.”
Barwon Health will partner with Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative to ensure safe and high-quality care is provided.
Ms Kay said it was important to establish a safe, appropriate and sustainable service that is culturally safe for young people from a range of backgrounds.
“As more young people move to Cherry Creek, our on-site services will scale up, underpinned by Barwon Health’s expertise, capability and networks,” she said.
