Village Voice News - Community - Breaking the cycle of isolation

For a young refugee, Sydney can be a lonely place. Passing high school can seem impossible for those who've never set foot in a classroom. For those who've seen their parents killed before their eyes, flashbacks and bouts of aggression can plague their lives.

But a series of youth camps in Concord is helping young refugees recover from their experiences and build a new life away from their trouble-stricken past.

Held during school holidays at the riverside setting of Rivendell at Concord Hospital, the camps draw together children aged 10-13 for four days of activities, friendship-building and skill sharing.

Run by the NSW Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS), co-ordinator Mohamed Baaruud said the camps allowed young refugees to break the cycle of isolation.

"It shows them that other people living in Sydney have had a similar experience. The kids learn from each other about the settlement experience and how they overcame problems," Mohamed said.

"They share knowledge about language and cultural barriers, things to do after school, and where to get help with homework," he said.

The participants hail from as far and wide as Africa, Asia and the Middle East, and must adjust to a whole new way of life, he said.

"Everything is new to them. In Australia they play soccer on a field when at home they were playing on the street. In refugee camps there are no traffic lights or cars - the big city is a totally different experience. It can be overwhelming," he said.

The children spend their time exploring the grounds of Rivendell and enjoying outings to the pool, Centrepoint Tower and Taronga Zoo, as well as taking part in tailored skills sessions.

"If they're having problems making friends, we'll look at that; if it's a problem with environmental shock we'll talk about what they are experiencing. Or if they have an anger problem we might do an art therapy session," Mohamed said.

While many young refugees can be reluctant to participate, watching them open up is the most rewarding part of the job, Mohamed said.

"I love making them smile, getting to know them, learning from them and teaching them something. By the end of the camp the often ask if they can stay a few more days," he said.