Youth health initiatives have expanded in Camden, with Council joining Traxside Youth Health Service in offering a LGBTIQA+ Diversity group program.

The program is hosted at Narellan Library,and provides a safe space for LGBTIQA+ young people aged 16 -24 years in the Camden area to hang out and meet new people.

Traxside Health Education Officer, Caitlin Miles, said the group provides a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for local young people.

“The group aims to promote wellbeing, connectedness and social cohesion and to increase the visibility of issues faced by LGBTIQA+ youth in the community,” Ms Miles said.

“We’re very happy with the success of the group so far. Since starting in August 2019 in Camden, we’ve had 20 young people attend, with between 10 and 12 consistently attending each group.”

Traxside Youth Health Service remains a free and confidential service for young people in the Macarthur region with the program running every second Wednesday throughout the school term.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said this was an exciting opportunity for people to make new friends while feeling safe and comfortable.

“It is important for our entire community to feel comfortable in their surroundings and this program offers a new avenue with professionals from Traxside,” Cr Fedeli said.

“The group is a great way to chat, meet new people whilst also having access to resources and advice.

“So far the group has been a great success with the biggest turnout in south western Sydney and I encourage anyone who either identifies as LGBTIQA+ or someone you know to attend.”

For more information on the Diversity program, contact Traxside Youth Health Service on 4633 0880.