This year’s Menzies Youth Health Summit engaged young people in conversations about what was important for youth health in the Northern Territory and discussed solutions for a better future.
More than 30 young people aged 17-25 years were involved in consultations, podcasts, panel discussions or workshop sessions, while approximately 70 youth, as well as service providers attended the online Youth Health Summit held on 27 August 2021.
In response to a snap COVID lockdown, this year’s activities were moved online and a podcast series ‘Youth Choices! Youth Voices!’ was developed.
The event was hosted by Menzies School of Health Research, HOT NORTH, the NT Primary Health Network, Charles Darwin University, Bridging the Gap Foundation, Ironbark Aboriginal Corporation, ChartAir and the NT Government.
Total numbers and levels of engagement are still being collated and an online evaluation is underway, but early indications are positive and point to strong interest in the summit itself and in the topics discussed.
The priorities identified in the first Youth Health Summit in 2019 remain the same, with mental health being of most concern to young people, to the extent that the issue filtered through all major topics discussed.
Other issues of priority included sexual health, access to health services and the health of the environment.
When examining all areas of priority, the importance of young people being supported, informed, and engaged with skilled health workers, teachers, support staff, parents and carers emerged as a prominent thread.
Young people passionately stated their views and suggested a range of possible solutions, many of which possessed a powerhouse of knowledge and a determined and focused drive towards a better future.
A series of 15 podcasts have been developed and distributed involving young people, health experts, researchers and (respected elders / Traditional Owners?) who discuss issues affecting young people and their hopes for improved youth health outcomes in the NT.
Project co-ordinator Josie Povey said the summit is an important way for young people to have their voices heard on matters important to them.
“We thank all the young Territorians who got involved, and joined in the conversation, because the Youth Health Summit offers a great opportunity to have your say, so that together, we can help shape a better, safer, and healthier future for all Territorians,” Josie said.