A project to save teenagers before they begin a life of crime has been rolled out in Otara.
 

 


Boxer David Tua, one of TYLA’s ambassadors, provides inspiration to youngsters who want to make their dreams come true.

TYLA Trust’s youth development programme has run in Auckland’s Avondale and Mt Roskill areas for 10 years. It now includes at-risk teens from the south Auckland suburb of Otara.
The Turn Your Life Around (TYLA) Trust uses a police referral programme to identify Year Seven students who are at risk of serious offending. They receive support and mentoring right through to when they enter the workforce or go on to further education.
“It’s about early intervention and long-term commitment,” says TYLA CEO Toni-Maree Carnie. “This is a fence at the top of the cliff, when we can make a difference.”
Each year 30 young people are selected. They can stay for up to six years. Students spend time each week with a social worker, who helps them deal with personal, school and family life.
The social worker discusses progress with teachers and works with the family on any issues.
At the core of TYLA’s programme is homework help, literacy and numeracy sessions, but there is also plenty of after-school fun. That includes camps, outdoor education, holiday programmes, tuition to gain qualifications and skills, leadership training and cultural opportunities.
“TYLA is at the cutting edge of youth offending programmes,” says Toni-Maree. “We want to see what’s needed to turn the life of a young person around. If research shows something works, we will use it.”
That research includes evidence that teens with no interests and lacking in self-esteem will drift toward crime. Gangs attract those with weak family structures and poor literacy makes a life of crime more likely.
“TYLA helps prevent children from making the wrong choices,” she says. “They are taught that circumstances have influenced their lives, but the choices they can make will have more importance.”
TYLA works with Police in areas of high juvenile crime and networks with the community to identify young people who will benefit from the programme.
“We mentor, guide and support them right through,” says Toni-Maree. “We teach them values, goal setting and help deal with family issues.
“The programme has been very successful in Avondale and now, if it works in Otara, I’m sure there will be a lot of other communities that could benefit too.”
http://www.tyla.co.nz

  • In December ASB Community Trust granted TYLA $300,000, over 3 years, for running costs.