23/07/2025
In Epworth, one of the safe spaces supported by our Youth Advisory Board (YAB) members, a simple suggestion box turned into a lifeline.
Adolescent girls were encouraged to slip in their anonymous questions, fears, and worries — no issue too small, no topic off-limits. Among the many notes was one that quietly revealed the silent struggle of a young girl living in fear. She had been battling worrying symptoms for months, too scared and ashamed to speak out.
The YAB, trained in safeguarding and confidentiality, took her words seriously. They quickly escalated the concern through the 393 Youth Helpline, protecting her identity while ensuring she received the help she needed. A sensitive follow-up led her to a youth-friendly clinic, where she was finally diagnosed and treated for an STI.
Her anonymous note had opened the door to healing.
“I never imagined my words in a box would lead to real help,” she later shared. “I had been scared, confused, and ashamed for months. When the helpline called, I felt nervous yet relieved — someone had listened. At the clinic, I was treated with kindness and without judgment. Now I see the safe space not just as a meeting place, but as a lifeline. The YAB became my voice.”
Moved by her story, the YAB intensified sexual health education, ensuring more girls know their options, and that they are not alone.
One anonymous voice, heard and helped, showed the power of youth-led safe spaces and the impact of the 393 Youth Helpline in turning silent struggles into stories of survival.