Be part of a groundbreaking initiative to empower young people with disabilities, proudly brought to you by are-able, Victoria Police, and the Law Courts of Victoria.
The Diversion Cautioning Pilot Program is an innovative initiative aimed at reducing contact with police and the justice system for young people with disabilities, intellectual disabilities (ID), or cognitive impairments. By addressing the root causes of offending behaviours and providing early intervention, the program fosters safer communities while empowering participants to lead positive, fulfilling lives.
Why your support matters
Young people with disabilities face significant barriers in our justice system. Although they represent just 2.9% of Australians, individuals with intellectual disabilities account for 15% of the prison population—a figure that rises to 30% for those with borderline intellectual disabilities. These statistics underline the critical need for programs like this.
Help us achieve the program’s overarching goals to:
- Promote community safety.
- Enhance early intervention and harm reduction strategies.
- Create pathways away from criminal activity by connecting participants with tailored, local support.
How you can help
We are looking for suppliers and service providers to collaborate with us by offering their expertise, resources, or support to help achieve the program’s objectives. This could include:
- Local services: Engaging with young participants to provide tailored solutions that address their specific needs.
- Specialist providers: Delivering workshops, counselling, or skill-building sessions.
- In-kind contributions: Offering venue spaces, materials, or promotional support to amplify our efforts.
By supporting this initiative, you’ll be making a tangible difference in the lives of young people while contributing to a safer and more inclusive community. Together, we can demonstrate the power of collaboration and create meaningful, sustainable change.