A seat at the table
This project gave voice to young people who have entered the criminal justice system and were struggling with their mental health.
It helped them to process trauma and get support with emotional rehabilitation by providing a safe facilitated space that enabled the young people to talk to others who were themselves at risk of entering the criminal justice system, or who have left the criminal justice system and trying to get made changes to their life. Parents also took part in the project and were given advice and insight about what their child has been experiencing, about to experience, or the support needs of the young person. Participants received awareness on pathways to access entrepreneurship to restabilise themselves, along with mentorship, and healing processes.
One particular young person attested to how much he found the sessions useful and that he had gained a better understanding of life experiences and the consequences of his choices. Others said it gave voice to those who needed to be heard and enabled them to learn about some of the harsh realities of life. They also shared openly just how easy it is to get caught up in the system as a result of unresolved mental health challenges. Others said they gained insight into alternative ways to support their mental health using sports, arts etc and to use that as positive reasons not to reoffend.
