Thriving Kids

Thriving Kids: Youth Psychological First Aid in Queensland

As part of our growing work supporting young people to face life’s challenges with confidence and care, Plan C is partnering with Thriving Kids Queensland, PCYC Queensland Emergency Services Cadets, and Wesley Mission Headspace to deliver a new program of Youth Psychological First Aid (PFA) training.

We know how many young people are already supporting friends, classmates, and even family members through tough times, and how little training or guidance they often receive. This project is designed to gently build confidence, awareness, and simple, practical skills that help young people be there for others (and themselves) during and after crises.

Why this project matters

Across Queensland, young people are deeply aware of how climate change and recurring disasters affect their wellbeing and social networks. Research shows that building confidence and agency is one of the best ways to address eco-anxiety and strengthen resilience. By learning Psychological First Aid, young people gain:

  • Grounding strategies they can use in times of stress

  • Practical skills to support others during crises

  • A greater sense of agency, hope, and connection

How it works

Together with our partners, we are delivering a series of trauma-aware, youth-friendly workshops in the Wide Bay–Burnett region during November 2025. Sessions are co-designed with young people to ensure they are relevant, strengths-based, and filled with real conversations that matter.

Workshops are held with:

  • PCYC Emergency Services Cadets (ages 12–17)

  • Headspace youth participants (ages 16–25)

Our approach

At Plan C, every program we run seeks to:

  • Provide practical training: offering tools and knowledge young people can put into practice.

  • Nurture social connections: helping participants strengthen the networks that support them in both peace and crisis.

  • Integrate wellbeing strategies: embedding grounding, trauma-informed approaches into all sessions.

Project outcomes

By the end of the program, young people will have:

  • Practical Psychological First Aid skills to use in daily life and in disasters

  • Increased confidence and resilience in the face of climate and life challenges

  • Stronger social bonds and a sense of shared purpose

✨ Thriving Kids is about equipping the next generation with the confidence, tools, and support they need to thrive — no matter what the future holds.

Check out our updates as the project progresses:

September 2025: Program launch