New strategies are needed to help youth at risk

From the evidence gathered over the last 20-30 years, professionals have seen the need for new strategies to help youth at risk: early intervention, provision of wrap- around services and the provision of alternative models of programs/ schooling. Those places that have committed to adopting these strategies have seen long-term reduction in youth crime. The cycle of crime can be broken. With the right interventions, young people can embark on different pathways that do not involve crime. Not only does the young person benefit, but so does the whole community. There are no “quick fixes” to youth crime. Societies and governments will need to have a long-term commitment to effective, evidence-based solutions.

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