Bailey’s two-and-a-half-year journey is one of resilience and growth. The teenager has faced challenges, but with support, he has navigated the adversity - and now faces a bright future.
Bailey was referred to the Youth Alcohol and Other Drug Care Coordination (YAODCC) program, run by Better Together, after concerns about his vaping at school and possible risky alcohol and other drug (AOD) behaviours.
At the time, he was in Year 10 and completing a school-based apprenticeship.
He was facing significant family conflict, which deeply affected his stability. The strain between his family caused Bailey to lose his apprenticeship and stop attending school.
It’s been a hard road.
“Without support, I don't know where we would have ended up,” Bailey said.
“We are all greatly appreciative that there is this kind of support out there for families to access.
“All the team at YAODCC have been great to work with, and I’m thankful for the ongoing support for me and my family.”
YAODCC Coordinator of Case Management Team Amanda Hodgkinson said Bailey had a lot to work through.
“The team worked closely with Bailey to address his complex needs, focusing on repairing his relationship with family, providing AOD education, supporting his financial independence, and ensuring stable accommodation,” she said.
"He returned to live with his mother, and their relationship has improved significantly. They are now working together to build a stable home environment.
“He had a lot to work through, and he should be very proud.”
During his involvement with YAODCC, Bailey received a formal diagnosis of ADHD and Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) through specialist referrals.
This provided clarity and allowed him to access ongoing support, not only for himself but also for his family.
YAODCC ensured that Bailey and his family received the resources needed to manage his conditions effectively.
“One of Bailey’s standout achievements was his acceptance into the VPG (Vocational Partnerships Group) youth apprenticeship program, where he has recently successfully completed a 22-week conservation traineeship,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
“Bailey contributed to maintaining 280km of bike trails and planting 3,000 trees across the Tableland district. This experience gave him a sense of pride and new skills.
“Following his traineeship, he applied for and was offered employment with a local landscape company. This marked a significant step toward career and financial independence.”
Bailey has also made significant strides in regulating his emotions and developing healthier coping strategies. The ongoing support from YAODCC and education for his family on how to best support him with APD and ADHD have been crucial in his growth.
“Family visits have been encouraged to maintain strong connections with his loved ones and enhance his community ties,” she said.
“Bailey’s journey is a testament to his perseverance. With continued support from YAODCC, he is now on a path to a fulfilling future filled with new opportunities for education, career, and personal growth.”
Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) funds Better Together to run the Youth Alcohol and Other Drug Care Coordination (YAODCC) program.
* Surname has been omitted for privacy.
