Suzie (not her real name), 18, is currently on an the intensive supervision and surveillance programme after committing a shoplifting offence.
During her order she had a baby and realised things had to change. Said Suzie: “I stopped offending because of having my baby and the responsibility of being a young mum. Things are different now and my life has changed very quickly.”
With support from Sabrina Aries, her youth inclusion worker, she has turned her back on crime, and has worked really hard to improve her life. Within months both her confidence and self-worth have increased due to her youth offender turns her back on crime positive involvement, and she also has a more mature attitude.
Said Sabrina: “Suzie is a fun, clever and capable young woman with a lot to offer. She is close to completing her order and has engaged in a number of personal development activities.”
These have included supporting members at the young parents group based at a local youth centre, preparing a buffet, baking cakes and organising children’s birthday parties.
Suzie is now sharing her experiences so that others can learn from her mistakes. “I want to help other young mums and people that don’t realise how hard it can be with a baby at a young age. I want to show people how much I have changed, and that I have learned from my experiences.”
Suzie has completed a personal portfolio, detailing her learning which is currently in the process of being accredited. She is very popular and a role model to many of her peers.