PARKERVILLE Children and Youth Care officially opened its newly relocated George Jones Child, Youth and Family Centre last week.

The event marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s ongoing commitment to providing radically personalised care and advocacy for children, young people and families impacted by trauma and abuse.

“The relocation to its new purpose designed facility outside the Armadale Central Shopping Centre demonstrates our dedication to creating tailored spaces for children and young people impacted by adverse experiences,” chief executive officer Kim Brooklyn said.

“Collaborating closely with WA Police and MKDC consultants throughout the design phase, the new centre exemplifies our commitment to trauma-informed care and comprehensive support.”

The centre will host the multi-agency ‘investigation support team’, composed of professionals from diverse backgrounds, including the WA Police, psychologists, advocates, family therapists, domestic violence experts, and allied health practitioners from Parkerville Children and Youth Care.

“This integrated approach enhances efficiency, reducing the risk of retraumatisation and facilitating recovery.

These spaces honour resilience and inspire hope for a brighter future,” Ms Brooklyn said.

“The centre stands as a pillar of hope and healing for children, young people and families, offering a wide range of services and includes counselling and therapy rooms, interview suites, and meeting spaces, all designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind to ensure every child and young person feels valued, respected, and empowered.”

She said the need for child, youth, and family centres was highlighted by alarming statistics: in Australia, one in three girls and one in five boys experience sexual assault, with 78 per cent facing repeat incidents.

With 3158 reported cases of sexual assault in Western Australia in 2022 alone, the demand for services is urgent.

The centre was officially opened by Police Minister Paul Papalia and Early Childhood Education, Child Protection, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence and Community Services Minister Sabine Winton.