06 Mar 2020
Dear Parents and Community Members,
We are looking for volunteers for a wonderful program called YAM.
Are you passionate about promoting mental health, resilience & help-seeking in young people?
Are you willing to volunteer a small amount of time to help deliver a mental health program in schools?
Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) is an evidence-based mental health program for young people aged 14 – 16 years. YAM gets young people involved and talking about mental health through role-play and discussion. By doing this, young people will learn problem solving skills and gain knowledge about mental health. YAM is delivered by a trained YAM Facilitator with support from a YAM Helper, who provide young people with a safe and non-judgemental space to explore mental health topics such as stress, crisis, depression and knowledge of suicide warning signs and help strategies.
What does being a YAM Helper involve?
• being present in the room and helping manage the classroom for the duration of the program, helping to prepare the classroom,
• assisting with handing out program materials,
• supervising and/or participating in role plays for program participants,
• helping the YAM Facilitator and school staff connect students with supports if needed, and
• checking in with the YAM Facilitator about your experience and providing feedback on the session.
What is the commitment?
Training: Half day free YAM Helper training or equivalent (e.g. observation of YAM sessions).
Helping with one full YAM program requires approximately 7 - 15 hours over 3 weeks, including:
• Week 1: 2 – 3 - 6 hours
• Week 2: 2 – 3 - 6 hours
• Week 3: 2-3 hours
*Note: YAM sessions are generally delivered on the same day each week.
Please note you may only be a Helper in schools where you have no known relationships with any of the students.
What do I need to be a YAM Helper?
• A valid Working With Children Check (or being willingness to obtain)
• A supportive and non-judgmental attitude
• Confidence to help deliver YAM
• Commitment to undertaking YAM Helper training
• Commitment to helping with at least two full YAM programs
• Willingness and ability to travel
The next YAM Helper training session will be on Friday 13th March at Newcastle High School.
If you would like to have further information on how to become a YAM Helper please contact:
Anthony Beavis, Head Teacher Student Wellbeing Initiatives, Department of Education Anthony.beavis3@det.nsw.edu.au
Warm regards,
Jo Gray