Together We Walk: The Importance of Relationship in Youth Work with Refugee Young People

Abstract

In Australia, one in four young people are from a refugee or migrant background (MYAN 2016: 4).1 Young people from refugee backgrounds are some of the most vulnerable people in our community and they might reasonably be expected to have different complex needs compared with other young people. The purpose of this chapter is to explore and outline some of the key factors in supporting work with refugee young people. This chapter draws on prior research by the author to explore the experiences of refugee young people and youth workers who work with refugees in Australia. Through interview data, the chapter offers insights into the needs of young people, as well as the perceptions of youth workers and the services they use. Central to the chapter’s argument is the importance of relationships in developing bonds of trust and building a critically reflective and responsive practice.