[Sub ID 3982] Equine-assisted psychotherapy and holistic jobseeker support (Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre)

Submission ID: 3982
Organisation name: Port Macquarie Horse Riding Centre

Which priority group of the Try, Test and Learn Fund does your idea support?
Young students at risk of long-term unemployment

What need or issue are you trying to address?
The Mid North Coast has been identified as a cluster area of unemployment in 15-24 year olds. In January 2016, the Mid North Coast ranked number 2 in New South Wales with an unemployment rate of 19.5 percent while the Australian average youth unemployment rate was ranked at 12.2 percent. We wish to address the issue of long-term unemployment, welfare reliance and generational welfare dependency on the Mid North Coast. As well as the statistics noted above, personal observations from Katherine (Mental Health Social Worker and partner in proposal) included a low level skill set, lack of initiative to gain employment and lack of opportunity in the targeted age bracket whilst working in the Out-of-Home-Care sector.

What is your idea?
Our idea is to deliver a holistic program encompassing:
-Mental health and life skills -Equine management and riding skills
-Farm management and maintenance skills
– Delivered in an employment focused format

The objective is to build a pathway to further study and/or employment in the rural sector while promoting positive mental health. Aside from teaching practical skills and positive mental health this program will instill a motivated and positive attitude towards work and study.