Frequently Asked Questions

PILLAR is committed to fostering emotional wellbeing through a range of supportive services designed to help individuals build resilience, self-confidence, and a strong sense of independence. Here’s how we support emotional wellbeing:

  • Personalized Support Plans: Each individual at PILLAR receives a tailored support plan focused on their unique needs, strengths, and goals. This personalized approach ensures that everyone gets the right level of emotional support and guidance.
  • One-on-One Mentoring and Counseling: Our dedicated staff provide one-on-one mentoring and counseling to help individuals navigate challenges, process emotions, and develop coping strategies. This support aims to empower individuals to manage stress, improve mental health, and increase self-awareness.
  • Life Skills and Resilience Workshops: We offer regular workshops that teach essential life skills, promote positive thinking, and encourage resilience-building. Topics include managing emotions, effective communication, building healthy relationships, and goal-setting, all of which contribute to emotional wellbeing.
  • Community and Peer Support: PILLAR fosters a supportive community where individuals can connect with others on similar journeys. Peer support groups and community activities provide a safe space for sharing experiences, building connections, and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • Access to Health and Wellness Resources: We partner with local health and wellness providers to offer additional resources, including mental health services, wellness programs, and activities that encourage physical health, which is closely linked to emotional wellbeing.

At PILLAR, we believe that a holistic approach to emotional wellbeing is key to achieving independence and personal growth. Our team is dedicated to creating a compassionate environment where each individual can thrive emotionally and reach their full potential.

An Individualized Pathway or Care Plan at PILLAR is a personalized support plan created to meet the unique needs, goals, and aspirations of each individual in our care. This plan is developed collaboratively, with input from the individual, our support team, and any relevant professionals or family members to ensure a holistic approach to care.

The key elements of an Individualized Pathway or Care Plan include:

  • Personalised Goals and Objectives: The plan identifies specific goals that the individual wants to achieve, whether related to independent living, education, employment, emotional wellbeing, or personal growth.
  • Tailored Support and Services: Based on the individual’s needs, the Individualized Pathway or Care Plan outlines the services and resources provided, such as counseling, skills development, and life coaching. This support is tailored to empower each person on their journey toward independence and resilience.
  • Regular Reviews and Updates: Individualized Pathway or Care Plans are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the individual’s progress, address any changing needs, and adjust goals as required. This ongoing review ensures the plan remains relevant and effective.
  • Strengths-Based Approach: The Individualized Pathway or Care Plan focuses on an individual’s strengths and talents, building on these qualities to promote self-confidence, resilience, and personal development.
  • Collaborative Involvement: We encourage active involvement from the individual, ensuring their voice and preferences are central to the plan. Where appropriate, family members or trusted advocates can participate to offer additional support.

An Individualized Pathway or Care Plan at PILLAR is not just a document; it’s a roadmap to help each person achieve their fullest potential while receiving the guidance, encouragement, and resources they need. This personalized approach enables us to make a meaningful, lasting impact in each person’s life.

At PILLAR, we offer emergency placements to support young people who are in immediate need of safe and stable housing. Here’s how they can access these placements:

  • Referral Process: Emergency placements are typically arranged through referrals from local authorities, social services, or partner agencies. If a young person is in urgent need, they should contact their social worker or designated support service to initiate the referral process to PILLAR.
  • Direct Contact: Young people or their representatives can also reach out to us directly for guidance on accessing emergency placements. Our team will provide information on eligibility, the referral process, and any immediate steps they need to take.
  • Assessment and Placement: Once we receive a referral or inquiry, our team will conduct a rapid assessment to understand the young person’s situation and needs. If they meet the criteria, we work swiftly to arrange a placement in a safe, welcoming environment where they’ll receive the support they need.
  • 24/7 Support and Guidance: During an emergency placement, young people have access to 24/7 support from our trained staff. We aim to provide not only a safe place to stay but also emotional and practical support to help them through this challenging time.
  • Transition Planning: As part of our commitment to long-term stability, we work closely with young people to develop a plan for the future, whether it’s returning to their family, moving into supported lodgings, or finding independent housing.

If a young person is facing an emergency housing need, PILLAR is here to help provide a safe and supportive space. Our team is dedicated to assisting young people in crisis and guiding them towards a path of stability and independence.

At PILLAR, we equip young people with essential life skills that empower them to live independently, build resilience, and succeed in all aspects of life. Our life skills programs cover a range of practical and personal development areas, including:

  • Financial Literacy: Young people learn budgeting, managing expenses, understanding savings, and basic financial planning. These skills help them build financial independence and make informed financial decisions.
  • Cooking and Nutrition: We provide guidance on meal planning, grocery shopping, cooking nutritious meals, and understanding the importance of a balanced diet. These practical skills help individuals maintain their health and well-being.
  • Employment Readiness: We offer workshops and coaching on writing resumes, preparing for job interviews, and effective communication in the workplace. These skills help young people prepare for employment and navigate the world of work.
  • Time Management and Organization: Time management skills are taught to help young people prioritize tasks, set goals, and stay organized in their personal and professional lives.
  • Self-Care and Wellness: We encourage young people to develop healthy habits for emotional and physical self-care, including exercise routines, relaxation techniques, and mental health practices.
  • Building Healthy Relationships: Our programs focus on communication skills, conflict resolution, and building positive relationships with peers, family, and colleagues. These social skills are crucial for emotional wellbeing and community involvement.

At PILLAR, we believe that mastering life skills is a critical step toward independence. Our goal is to provide young people with the tools they need to navigate life successfully, build confidence, and thrive in their personal and professional lives.

PILLAR provides support for young people who are striving to build independence, resilience, and a brighter future. Our services are tailored to meet the needs of individuals who may be facing challenging circumstances, including:

  • Young People Transitioning from Care: We support young people who are leaving the care system and preparing to live independently. Our services help them build life skills, find stable housing, and access resources for a smooth transition.
  • Individuals at Risk of Homelessness: For young people facing housing instability, we offer emergency placements, supported lodgings, and guidance to help them secure safe, long-term accommodations.
  • Those in Need of Emotional and Practical Support: Young people experiencing mental health challenges, emotional distress, or needing practical life skills can find support through our counseling, mentoring, and life skills programs.
  • Unaccompanied Minors and Refugees: We assist young people who are new to the country or unaccompanied, helping them adjust to their new environment, learn essential skills, and build a sense of community.
  • Young Adults Seeking Employment or Education Support: We offer career guidance, employability training, and educational support for young people aiming to enter the workforce, pursue further education, or develop their skills.
  • Youth Aged 16-18 Seeking Independence: Our programs are designed for young people in the 16-18 age range who are working towards living independently and achieving personal and professional goals.

PILLAR’s services are open to young people who are committed to self-improvement and seeking a supportive environment to help them overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. Our compassionate team is here to provide guidance, resources, and a community where they can thrive.

PILLAR partners with educational institutions to support young people in achieving their academic and career goals. Through these collaborations, we ensure that young people have access to quality educational resources and guidance, creating pathways for personal and professional success. Here’s how we work together with schools, colleges, and other educational organizations:

  • Academic Support and Tutoring: We coordinate with educational institutions to provide tutoring, homework assistance, and specialized learning support tailored to each young person’s needs, helping them stay on track academically.
  • Career and Vocational Training: PILLAR collaborates with colleges and training providers to offer vocational programs, apprenticeships, and career development workshops. This helps young people gain practical skills and explore different career paths.
  • Work Experience and Internship Opportunities: Through our partnerships, we connect young people with internships, work placements, and volunteering opportunities that align with their interests and career goals, giving them hands-on experience and professional connections.
  • Education and Skill-Building Workshops: We organize workshops in collaboration with schools and colleges on topics such as study skills, time management, and personal development. These workshops enhance their learning experience and help build essential life skills.
  • Pathway Planning and Academic Guidance: Our team works closely with school counselors and academic advisors to create individualized education and career plans for each young person, ensuring they receive the right support to reach their goals.
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing Resources: In collaboration with educational institutions, we offer resources focused on mental health, emotional wellbeing, and resilience, helping young people manage academic pressures and personal challenges.

PILLAR’s partnerships with educational institutions provide young people with a comprehensive support network, helping them thrive academically and preparing them for a successful transition to independence. Our joint efforts ensure that every young person has the tools and resources needed to excel in school and beyond.

If you would like to refer a young person to PILLAR, we are here to guide you through the process. We accept referrals from social services, educational institutions, healthcare providers, and other professionals, as well as from family members or young people themselves. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Contact Us: Reach out to our team directly via phone or email to discuss the referral. We’ll provide you with all necessary information about our services and answer any questions you may have about the process.
  • Complete a Referral Form: We’ll ask you to fill out a referral form, which includes details about the young person’s needs, background, and any relevant circumstances. This information helps us assess the level of support required and determine the most appropriate services.
  • Provide Supporting Documentation: In some cases, we may request additional documentation, such as reports from social workers, schools, or healthcare providers, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the young person’s needs and goals.
  • Assessment and Consultation: Once we receive the referral, our team will review the information and, if appropriate, arrange an initial consultation with the young person. This meeting allows us to better understand their needs, answer any questions they may have, and begin building a support plan.
  • Decision and Next Steps: After the assessment, we’ll inform you about the acceptance decision and outline the next steps. If accepted, we’ll work closely with the young person to create an individualized support plan and begin their journey with PILLAR.

At PILLAR, we strive to make the referral process as straightforward and supportive as possible. Our team is dedicated to providing young people with a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, develop essential life skills, and achieve their goals. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance.

PILLAR provides services to young people who need support to build independence and achieve their goals. The cost of services depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the individual, but we work hard to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent young people from accessing the support they need. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Free and Subsidized Services: Many of our core services, including mentoring, counseling, and life skills programs, are offered at no charge to young people. We strive to make our services accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation.
  • Funding Support: In some cases, funding for additional services such as vocational training or housing assistance may be available through external grants, sponsorships, or partnerships with local government agencies.
  • No Young Person Turned Away: PILLAR is committed to ensuring that no young person is turned away due to financial constraints. If cost is a concern, our team will work with you to find solutions or support options that fit within your budget.

For more detailed information about specific programs or costs, please contact us directly. We’re here to answer any questions and help ensure that every young person who needs support can access it without financial worry.

We offer several ways to keep you updated on PILLAR’s latest events, programs, and opportunities for young people:

  • Follow Us on Social Media: Follow PILLAR on our social media channels to get real-time updates, event announcements, and program highlights. We share inspiring stories, photos, and resources that showcase our community and the positive impact of our work.
  • Visit Our Website: Check our website regularly for updates on our programs, workshops, and other activities. We keep our Events and News sections up-to-date, so you always have access to the latest information.
  • Contact Our Team: If you’re interested in specific programs or want to know more about how you can participate in our events, feel free to reach out to us directly. Our team is happy to provide you with information and answer any questions.
  • Join Our Community Events: PILLAR hosts community events and open houses where you can meet our team, learn more about our services, and find out about upcoming programs. We encourage you to join us at these events to stay connected.

By staying informed, you’ll have access to resources, programs, and community connections that support personal growth, learning, and resilience. Join us as we create opportunities and make a difference in the lives of young people at PILLAR!

Need Support? We're Here for You!

At PILLAR, we understand that every Young Person deserves a safe and nurturing environment. Whether you need assistance transitioning to independent living, emotional support, or help with daily life skills, our dedicated team is just a call away. Reach out to us today, and let's work together to build a brighter future!