Every year, hundreds of young people are rushed to emergency departments after nights out, highlighting the critical need for programs that address risk behaviours. The P.A.R.T.Y. Program (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-related Trauma in Youth) is designed for individuals aged 15 to 25, and focuses on the dangers of alcohol, drugs, reckless driving, and other risky behaviours that often result in preventable injuries – the leading cause of death and disability in this age group.
The P.A.R.T.Y. Program is addressing this need and is making a significant difference in the lives of young people across New South Wales, thanks to generous support from Community Bank Lindfield & Districts, a franchise of Bendigo Bank located on the Pacific Highway in Lindfield.
This initiative, run by the Royal North Shore Hospital Trauma Service, in collaboration with clinical staff from the hospital, NSW Ambulance and Police, is a hands-on, simulation-based activity program where participants get a firsthand look at the consequences of trauma within a hospital setting. They spend time in the Emergency Room, Intensive Care, and Rehabilitation Units, seeing the harsh realities of what happens when things go wrong.
This powerful, often emotional experience includes witnessing critical medical interventions and hearing from patients whose lives have been permanently changed by accidents. It’s designed to show young people how one bad choice can impact them for the rest of their lives, giving them the tools to make safer decisions going forward.
Transforming Attitudes and Behaviours
The impact of the P.A.R.T.Y. Program is clear. Young participants consistently report a shift in their attitudes and behaviours, showing a decline in risk-taking after completing the program.
“I had no idea how confronting it would be to see what could happen in a car accident, but I’m so much more mindful now of who I get into a car with,” said *Kyle, aged 18.
The interactive program makes the lessons more meaningful, allowing young people to emotionally connect with the consequences of dangerous actions. For many, it acts as a wake-up call, motivating them to adopt safer behaviours in their everyday lives.
“I know people who have had to get their stomach pumped but I want to protect myself but also my friends. I’ve learned a lot about how dangerous alcohol can be in binge amounts,” said *Lucy, aged 19.
As the demand for this valuable education grows, more schools and community groups are seeking to provide their students with the opportunity to engage in this life-saving program.
Ensuring the Future of the Program
With support from Community Bank Lindfield & Districts, the P.A.R.T.Y. Program remains free of charge for participants, ensuring it is accessible to all.
Renee Peard, Nurse Manager of the Trauma Service, RNSH, said that the program is important and hugely valuable.
“This is such a valuable program which is offered to high schools within our district. This program is not just about providing education, but to get the students to think about the ‘ripple effect’ of the decisions that they make. They are exposed to what it would be like to experience the hospital journey as a patient through simulation of emergency and intensive care scenarios, along with the emotional impact which has a lasting effect on not only themselves but their families and friend. It’s a program to provide them with tools to make safer choices.”
Thanks to the Community Bank’s generous donation, the P.A.R.T.Y. Program will continue to benefit hundreds of young Australians each year by providing them with tools to keep them safe and protect their future.
Sharon Franke, Community Development Manager at the Community Bank Lindfield & Districts, said “As a Community Bank, we are deeply committed to supporting our local community, and that includes investing in our young people. We believe in the positive impact of the P.A.R.T.Y. program and are very proud to support it.”
Thank you to Community Bank Lindfield & Districts for supporting the P.A.R.T.Y. Program.
