Breaking down barriers
Blue Light Victoria chief executive Elissa Scott says youth crime has many causes, including disengagement from school, mental health challenges, social isolation and a lack of positive adult role models. The youth charity, which supports people aged 10 to 21, runs programs that connect young people with police and emergency services to build trust. Ms Scott said intervening before offending occurs is key, and that staying connected with education is a strong protective factor. The story forms part of the Star Weekly's We Deserve Better campaign on crime in Melbourne's west and north.