A new clinical intervention centre at the Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre will help drive down rates of re-offending and support detainees to make positive life choices.
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said the $2.7 million facility would be a one-stop-shop for specialist, therapeutic treatment to help address offending behaviour.
“This new clinic will enable better, more effective intervention in a safe, secure and purpose-built environment,” Mr Ward said.
“We are focused on improving community safety and reducing reoffending while at the same time strengthening our centres across NSW by improving security infrastructure, policy and practice”.
“Investments in facilities like this provide our staff with the tools they need to give detainees the best chance of rehabilitation.”
The clinic consists of six intervention rooms for individual and small group counselling sessions, and one large room to facilitate offence-focused group intervention.
Psychologists, caseworkers, a speech pathologist and an occupational therapist will work at the centre, providing opportunities for more coordinated therapeutic counselling and casework.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the clinic would assist staff in the important role they play in turning young lives around.
“This state-of-the-art facility features controlled internet capabilities, allowing for virtual visits with community officers, outside agencies and families,” Mr Crouch said.
“When young people enter custody, we need to do everything possible to make sure they never return. I am proud this new facility is based on the Central Coast and is one of the ways the NSW Government is reducing recidivism by connecting young offenders to the support they need.”
The NSW Government is investing $6.8 million this financial year to strengthen security and infrastructure in the State’s six youth justice centres.
