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.

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.

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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Source: AAP



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