Theft of Vehicles/High Risk Offending Behaviours

Preventitive Strategies

To prevent young people from engaging in high-risk offending behaviours, youth workers should implement a proactive and structured plan that emphasises supervision, communication, and positive reinforcement. Begin by establishing clear expectations and boundaries regarding acceptable behavior both within the placement and in the community. Encourage open communication and trust, allowing young people to express their concerns and frustrations while providing guidance and support.

Incorporate structured daily routines and engaging activities that keep young people occupied and minimise idle time, which can increase the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors. Provide opportunities for skill-building and personal development, focusing on areas such as conflict resolution, decision-making, and impulse control.

Offer regular supervision and monitoring, particularly during high-risk times or situations, and provide immediate intervention or redirection when necessary. By creating a supportive and structured environment and offering positive alternatives to risky behaviors, youth workers can help young people make safer choices and reduce the likelihood of offending behaviours.

To prevent young people from engaging in high-risk offending behaviours driven by adrenaline-seeking impulses, youth workers should incorporate stimulating and engaging activities that provide a safe outlet for their energy and curiosity. Offer opportunities for adventure and excitement within structured and supervised environments, such as organised outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking, or zip-lining, or adrenaline sports like paintball or go-karting with the correct high risk approvals. Additionally, encourage participation in team sports or physical challenges that provide a healthy dose of competition and excitement. Ensure that these activities are facilitated by trained staff and conducted with safety measures in place to minimise risk. By providing stimulating and adrenaline-inducing experiences in a controlled setting, youth workers can satisfy young people's craving for excitement while reducing the likelihood of engaging in high-risk offending behaviors.

Reactive Strategy

Act swiftly to intervene and prevent the young person from engaging further in the high-risk behaviour. Approach calmly but assertively, ensuring the safety of all individuals involved.

Use de-escalation techniques to calm the situation and reduce the intensity of emotions. Maintain a calm demeanor, speak in a reassuring tone, and actively listen to the young person's concerns while addressing any immediate safety concerns.

Clearly communicate the boundaries and consequences of engaging in high-risk behaviors. Reinforce the expectations for acceptable behavior and emphasize the importance of safety and respect for others.

Provide support and guidance to help the young person understand the potential consequences of their actions and explore alternative ways of coping with their emotions or frustrations. Offer encouragement and reassurance as they navigate through the situation.

Take necessary steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved. This may involve removing dangerous objects or substances, calling for additional support or assistance or relocating to a safer environment if necessary.

If the situation escalates or poses a significant risk, involve additional staff members or emergency services as needed.