Southside Justice and Upton Road Join Forces to Support Young People

Southside Justice has partnered with The Salvation Army’s Youth Residential Service at Upton Road to make legal help more accessible for young people experiencing homelessness. By embedding legal support within the refuge and offering outreach support, the partnership aims to address issues that often stand in the way of stability – such as family violence, tenancy disputes, fines, criminal and child protection matters.

Young people aged 16–25 face complex challenges alongside housing insecurity. Without timely legal assistance, these issues can escalate, affecting wellbeing and creating barriers to long-term housing and employment. Through this collaboration, legal support is integrated into the trusted Upton Road environment, making it easier for young people to get help when they need it.

Our youth lawyer will be available for:

• Onsite legal clinics at Upton Rd monthly
• Community legal education sessions for clients and staff to build legal literacy.
• Secondary consultations to strengthen case managers’ support for clients.
• Warm referrals to specialist services

The partnership’s goal is to resolve legal issues early, reduce emotional and financial strain, and improve housing readiness. By working together in a place-based model, Southside Justice and Upton Road are creating practical pathways for young people to move forward.

Our sincere thanks to the Matana Foundation for Young People for supporting this partnership.