This workshop explored a unique and tested framework and a practice example for engaging young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

The presentation from Mandy Willey, Youth Homelessness Project Officer, Victorian Department of Human Services, looked at ways to consult with young homeless people.

'Consultations in partnership' offers a reflective exploration on the 2009 Grampians regional focus-group consultations with young people experiencing homelessness. The aim of the presentation was to reflect on the methodology as an inclusive method for accessing and centring the experiences of young people experiencing homelessness within service delivery developments.

For the past twenty years, specialised youth health services have been operating in New South Wales with the aim of addressing the complex and multi-dimensional health and well being needs of homeless, at-risk and marginalised young people aged 12 to 25 years.

The workshop by David Keegan looked at helping participants gain a better understanding of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder as the main types of psychotic illnesses. it suggested strategies for responding to young people who are displaying psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations or delusions, and how to access appropriate services.

About 2% of the Australian population aged between 16 and 85 years have a psychotic illness with the majority of these experiencing schizophrenia or biploar disorder.

The workshop presentation from Brian Tranter, Manager, The Bridge Youth Service, looked at utilising ideas from the work of Gregory Bateson in creating approaches to inviting young people to consider options and choices.

Young people often do things with the belief that they have no alternatives. The idea of having alternatives grows with our sense of security. The more secure we are the more we are able to own the behaviours we choose.