Developmental Evaluation of TIDES (Trauma Intervention, Development and Emotional Support) Service

Young people with experience of complex trauma, and living with, or at risk of developing, a mental illness are not well supported by existing services in the ACT. The Trauma Intervention, Development and Emotional Support (TIDES) Service was co-designed by the Youth at Risk Project within the ACT Government Health and Community Services Directorate to address this need. Established in 2026, it will be the first of its kind in the ACT and will address gaps in the current service system by providing wraparound supports and care to young people using trauma-informed practices. The service has been designed for young people aged 13 to 17 years (inclusive), and up to 18 years if still attending school, with complex needs and psychosocial complexities.

This new service operates within a complex environment; therefore, our research team has been contracted to undertake a developmental evaluation to work alongside the provider to enable rapid adaptations and service improvements to ensure sustainability and success.

Does this study have ethics approval?

The ethical aspects of this research have been approved by the ANU Human Research Ethics Committee (Protocol H/2026/0557).

If you have any concerns or complaints about how this research has been conducted, please contact:

Ethics Manager, The ANU Human Research Ethics Committee
The Australian National University
Telephone: +61 2 6125 3427
Email: Human.Ethics.Officer@anu.edu.au

How can I obtain information about the results of the study?

Findings from this research will be posted here on the project website after the results have been collated.

Why should I participate in this study?

This developmental evaluation aims to support the ongoing improvement of TIDES. By participating, you will be able to help us understand what is working well, and identify opportunities to strengthen the service, ultimately benefiting young people in the ACT.

What should I do if I am feeling distressed?

If you experience distress whilst participating in this research, please do not continue and contact your local general practitioner or one of the services below for help:

• Lifeline

  Crisis support and suicide prevention service.
  Telephone (24hrs): 13 11 14
  Website: https://www.lifeline.org.au

• Kids Helpline (for people aged 25 and under)

  Free and confidential counselling service for people aged 5-25
  Telephone (24hrs): 1800 55 1800

• Beyond Blue

  Information and support for mental health problems like depression, anxiety and suicide.
  Telephone (24hrs): 1300 22 4636
  Website: https://www.beyondblue.org.au

• SANE

  Digital and telehealth support service for people over 18 with complex mental health needs
  Telephone (9am – 5pm): 1800 187 263 
  Website: www.sane.org