Breaking the cycle of violence in young people

More adolescents who use violence or have entered the justice system in Baw Baw will be able to access vital support from Quantum Support Services for the next three years.

Quantum has partnered with The Baker Foundation to expand the Adolescents Building Connections (ABC) program across Baw Baw, Latrobe City, Wellington and South Gippsland municipalities to support up to 400 young people each year until 2026.

The program was developed by Quantum in 2016 to support adolescents entering the justice system and has been expanded to include young people using violence in the home and community.

Quantum chief executive Natalie McDonald said the support of The Baker Foundation was crucial in creating positive change for young people, their families and the broader community.

“Adolescent family violence is the fastest growing type in the home...this funding will allow us to further grow the program, supporting more young people, and expand further within schools,” she said.

“The ABC program is designed to assist young people to break the cycle of violence and improve their connection to family, peers and the wider community.

“It combines interactive activities designed to meet the needs of adolescents, providing an open and safe discussion space to encourage peer connection and wider thinking.

“The ABC program encourages an environment of connection before correction and helps the adolescent to build capacity to maintain strong connected positive relationships in their life.”

Ms McDonald said the ABC program supported 25 young people in Baw Baw last year and the new funding would allow more local secondary schools to participate.

“Up to 20 young people can be supported each term within each school with the program.

“We look forward to expanding the support provided to young people across the Baw Baw region.”