Mental Health Support for Young Girls Through TURSA Community Funding - Hot Chocolate Circle

Through the TURSA 30 Year Community Grant Program, Strength Potential has delivered a youth mental wellbeing initiative helping young girls build confidence, resilience and practical coping skills.

Funding supported two eight-week Hot Chocolate Circle programs during the first half of 2026, creating safe spaces where participants could strengthen their wellbeing, connect with peers and learn strategies to better manage stress.

Youth Mental Wellbeing Program Delivers Positive Results

Over the first six months, 12 young girls participated in the program.

Participants reported a 10% increase in their understanding of stress and confidence in managing it, while survey results showed a 30% reduction in perceived stress levels.
Every participant who completed pre and post-program DASS-Y assessments demonstrated improvements in overall emotional wellbeing.

The grant has also enabled Strength Potential to establish new school partnerships and reconnect with previous education partners, expanding the reach of the program and increasing access to support for young girls who may not otherwise have participated.

These relationships have strengthened referral pathways and helped deliver the program in familiar, trusted environments for participants and their families.

Through the Grant, young girls are gaining skills, confidence and support networks they need to navigate challenges, strengthen their wellbeing and build brighter futures. As Strength Potential continues to expand the program, even more young people will have access to early intervention support and opportunities to thrive.

Outcome highlights:

Strong engagement across both programs, with participants consistently attending sessions and completing Hot Chocolate Circle challenges.

Increased confidence and self-worth, with participants reporting greater awareness of their personal strengths and improved resilience.

Reduced stigma around mental health conversations, with many participants feeling more comfortable discussing their wellbeing with friends, family members, teachers and professionals.

Stronger peer connections and friendships, helping participants feel more connected at school and within their communities and reducing feelings of isolation.

“With support of TURSA 30yr community grant funding, we have been able to connect with one new school and reconnect with another. These connections have proven invaluable and allowed us to expand the reach of the program and engage with young girls who may not have otherwise had access to this type of support. Building relationships with schools and community organisations has also helped strengthen referral pathways and support the ongoing delivery of the program in familiar and trusted settings for both participants and their families.”

Strength Potential Incorporated Member

The results highlight the value of early intervention programs and the important role community funding plays in supporting local organisations to respond to emerging needs.

As Strength Potential continues to grow the Hot Chocolate Circle program, more young girls will have access to practical tools, supportive connections and opportunities to strengthen their mental wellbeing.

TEL 1800 670 914

Mental Health Support for Young Girls Through TURSA Community Funding – Hot Chocolate Circle

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