Parenting

Community InformationTime for Youth is being funded to auspice a new Youth Support Service in Geelong designed to prevent young people getting into trouble with the law.

'This is a great initiative by the Community Services Minister Lisa Neville and the Government' says Mike Kelly CEO at Time for Youth.

 'Intervening early with young people 10-18 years, to prevent the escalation of troublesome behaviours is just what's needed in Geelong'

Three youth workers will work with Geelong Police to 'nip in the bud' anti-social behaviours that can set young people on a path into the justice system.

'The new service will target young people at the point when they first start getting into trouble.'

'Service responses will tackle the reasons why their young lives are getting off track' said Mike Kelly.

Young People will be able to be referred to the service located at the Old Post Office Youth Precinct by police, schools and community workers.

'We know that young people are less likely to get into trouble when they feel connected and engaged in their community'

The new Youth Support Service will work 'hand in hand' with Headspace/Clockwork, City of Greater Geelong Youth Workers, Diversitat Youth Services, and BAT Force School Focused Youth Workers.

Time for Youth will work closely with specialist youth agency and partner Barwon Youth in ensuring that vulnerable young people have the best opportunities that combined efforts can offer.

Working with families needs to be a big part of the solution.' 'The new Youth Support Service will be both 'youth focused and family centred'. Time for Youth will be working with alliance partner Bethany Community Support and 'family coaching' program partner Glastonbury Family Services in helping families to get the support that they need'.

 Youth workers in Geelong will be specially trained to counsel young people about the dangers of carrying knives and other potentially violent behaviours that put themselves and others at risk.

The Youth Support Service will work with up to 18 young people and families each week and 60 young people and families over a year, providing flexible responses and support services.

Further information  contact Mike Kelly. CEO Time for Youth