Young Offenders Worker

[suzie2119]

Was wondering if anyone has worked with young offenders before. I have worked in a prison but my job was to deal with the families of the prisonersn not with the prisoners themselves.
too cut a long story short, i start this new job in a weeks time and was wondering if anyone has any tips or advice.

[saxy_jag]

Don't let them think, for a minute, that you aren't sure what do to about anything. Be aware, too, that they are very good at manipulating those who will let them. This is a generalisation, by the way. There are as many 'good' young offenders as there are bad ones, but in the beginning you can't afford to take the risk.

On the other hand, give them the respect you'd give to anyone you didn't know, ie. be polite and don't keep reminding them why they're there (unless you're, say, a probation officer, in which case I guess you'd have to).

[suzie2119]

thanks jag, will keep this in mind.
My job is mostly trying to get the young yin's (16-17yr olds) to keep their community service appointments and also taking them to job interviews, appts etc... and getting them training oppertunitys and placements( i think)
the more i think about it the more i am getting worried haha..

[leelapops]

suzie don't worry! As long as you are firm, and don't take **** ( I asterisked it myself to save Ed the hassle!) then you'll be fine. Some are great, and a pleasure to work with. Some will be on a wind-up, so take what they say with a pinch of salt, not externally but certainly in your own head. All common sense stuff, like not getting too attached or involved, I am sure you know already. Some will just hate you for what you represent, but that is rare, and shouldn't be taken personally.

Lots of luck for your new job :)

[suzie2119]

thank you for the advice