Inspiring programs for our young people

Young people in youth justice precincts take part in a range of short-term and ongoing behavioural rehabilitation schemes.

These projects and programs help the young people develop self-belief; as well as a positive sense of identity within the wider community.

Youth justice workers at both Parkville and Cherry Creek collaborate with programs teams to:

• design activities that align with a young person's case management plan
• motivate young people to take part in the programs and make meaningful contributions.

Structured activities are run outside of school hours, and include sport, music production and performance, leadership courses and more.

Sport

Being involved in sport has many physical, mental and social benefits. Young people regularly take part in organised sport within out precincts.

Sports coaches run sessions that help young people develop:

• teamwork skills
• leadership skills
• an understanding of the importance of physical exercise in maintaining mental health.

Young people are also matched with a local sports club. This allows them to contribute to develop skills and positive relationships when they return home.

Some of the sports young people can play inside precincts include:

• Australian rules football (AFL)
• soccer
• tennis
• basketball
• netball
• athletics.

Hospitality

Young people who work in hospitality typically interact with customers from a diverse array of professional and cultural backgrounds. These experiences can improve self-confidence and interpersonal skills.

Helping to create a memorable dining experience for others regularly can also bring a sense of purpose to a young person's life.

There are several hospitality programs operating within youth justice precincts.

The Coffee Cart (External link) and STREAT Cafe (External link)programs prepare young people for professional barista work by training them in coffee making and customer service.

Young people prepare and serve food and beverages for the cafe that adjoins Parkville Youth Justice Precinct, giving them a chance to have real-world interactions.

A food truck fitted with a full kitchen is stationed outside Cherry Creek Youth Justice Precinct (Cherry Creek).

Young people make and serve coffee, snacks and toasted sandwiches to staff, while also studying hospitality qualifications through Parkville College.

The Lettuce Eat Take Away Food Program (External link) trains young people in business, cooking and customer service skills.

Young people create a weekly menu and precinct staff can submit food orders.

The young people work alongside youth justice staff to prepare and cook the food, then deliver it the same day.

Animals

Caring for animals can nurture empathy and compassion. Young people in youth justice precincts are able to spend time with animals as part of structured programs.

Lort Smith Animal Hospital (External link) runs an animal engagement program in Parkville. Young people do activities with dogs in recreation areas as well and can have quiet interaction time in class. Interested young people can also take part in a new program that teaches professional skills to work with shelter animals.

This is just a small sample of some of the ways young people develop the skills and qualities that can be the foundation of a positive and constructive life. If you want to be a part of this important work, you should consider becoming a youth justice worker.