For children suffering from grief, loss or trauma, there can be few support services available.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A new hub in Launceston aims to change that, bringing a school-based program out into the community.
The Inside Out 4 Kids Hub, part of City Mission, is a peer support program giving a healthy, safe outlet for children struggling with grief or loss, such as a family breakdown or the death of a loved one.
Program counsellor Teenette Van Dyk said the new hub, on Franklin Street, was a “safe space” for children to learn how to express their feelings and overcome adversity. It has been operating since February.
“One child who comes here said to me ‘this is my happy place now’,” Ms Van Dyk said.
She said the Inside Out 4 Kids program supports about 150 children across schools, and is expanding to early learning centres.
The free, eight-week program is specifically designed for children to gain support when adults around them may be impacted by the same grief or loss.