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Ice-affected Qld kids get govt help

Queensland youths in government care who are battling mental health issues and drug addiction will receive intensive support as part of a new trial.

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Source: AAP


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Children as young as 12 with a mental illness will be targeted by a new Queensland government trial to help them overcome drug addiction.

The $6.3 million trial was announced on Friday by Child Safety Minister Shannon Fentiman.

Starting in early 2018, the service will provide out-of-home care for up to six young people at a time to enable them to make the transition from hospital-based programs to home environments.

Ms Fentiman says a small number of youngsters under 17 in state care are dealing with complex mental health and drug addiction issues.

"It will be a fantastic service here in Logan to support some of our most vulnerable young people," Ms Fentiman told AAP.

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If the trial proves successful, Ms Fentiman said the aim was to have the service rolled out across the state.

Queensland Health Minister Cameron Dick, who attended a community forum on ice use at Beenleigh, south of Brisbane, on Friday, welcomed the trial.

"We know early intervention makes a big difference in the life of young people to get them out of a problem situation and into a life of wellbeing and success," Mr Dick said.


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