BackRoads Youth Works

BackRoads Youth Works, based in Williams, Western Australia, is a charity dedicated to supporting young people facing challenges such as disengagement from education, social isolation, and personal hardship. The organisation provides a nurturing environment where youth can develop essential life skills, gain practical training, and access holistic support to improve their wellbeing and future prospects.

BackRoads Core Program: Empowering Youth Through Practical Learning

The BackRoads Core Program is the charity’s flagship initiative, designed to help young people aged 11-18 develop literacy, numeracy, life skills, and employability. This program offers a practical, immersive, and supportive learning environment tailored to meet the needs of youth disengaged from mainstream education. It includes personalised teaching, vocational training in areas like agriculture and trades, and engaging activities such as driving lessons and creative workshops, all aimed at fostering confidence and skills for independent living.

Mission and Vision

BackRoads Youth Works is committed to transforming the lives of vulnerable young people by providing holistic youth work, education, accommodation, training, and employment support. Its vision is to create a community where every young person has the opportunity to thrive, belong, and build a positive future, regardless of their background or challenges.

Main Objectives

• Re-engage young people with education and training
• Develop practical skills for employment and independent living
• Provide wraparound support addressing social, emotional, and wellbeing needs
• Foster a sense of belonging and community connection
• Support cultural connection, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth

Benefiting Groups

BackRoads Youth Works primarily supports young people aged 11-18 who are disengaged from mainstream education and face complex challenges such as homelessness, trauma, unemployment, and social disadvantage. The charity also works closely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, recognising the importance of cultural identity in healing and growth.

Types of Services and Activities

• Individualised education and literacy/numeracy support
• Vocational training in agriculture, trades, hospitality, and natural resource management
• Life skills development including driving lessons and financial literacy
• Creative and recreational activities like art, music production, cooking, and sports
• Holistic wellbeing and youth work support, including cultural mentoring and community engagement
• Accommodation support for those needing stable housing