LOCAL homeless support service inCommunity Inc has launched an innovative Case Management Internship Program during the recent National Homelessness Week to create opportunities in the vital space.
The Specialist Housing and Homelessness Service is leading the way in creating career pathways for this much-needed profession.
“Our inaugural Case Management Internship Program is borne from our organisation identifying the need to nurture aspiring community sector practitioners,” CEO Paul Tommasini said.
“From day one, our interns will gain on-the-ground experience here in the Ipswich community while receiving dedicated support from an experienced mentor.”.
The interns have attended an induction day to begin the paid 12-month Case Management Internship Program.
In this program, the interns will engage with people experiencing homelessness: whether sleeping rough, via supported crisis accommodation, or on their pathway to independent housing.
“The reasons why people experience homelessness are multi-faceted and complex, so ensuring that our newest members of the team are provided with dedicated support to navigate their early career is essential,” Mr Tommasini said.
All three interns bring a passion for working in the social services sector, with a diverse range of experience and/or studies in the aged care and disability sectors as well as related areas such as community services, psychology and criminology.
The interns are excited about the opportunities with the program.
“I’m excited for this new opportunity. I’ve been seeking to get into this sector since finishing uni,” intern Carly said.
“I can’t wait to get to work, helping the Ipswich community.
“I can’t see the issue of homelessness diminishing in the near future when the housing crisis is not really going down.
“So it’s great to be part of an Intern Program for Case Managers to support people experiencing homelessness.”
Intern Jasper said: “It’s an invaluable opportunity to gain experience and knowledge from dedicated case managers working in the Ipswich community.”
Established in 1982, inCommunity supports young people at risk of, or experiencing homelessness in the local Ipswich community.
