At-risk Youth Peer Researchers Highlight Safety and “The Bonds You Make With Staff and Peers”

Abstract

ABSTRACT The over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in the juvenile justice system is an ongoing social justice issue. Here we report on our latest research project within an ongoing industry partnership between staff at The Lighthouse and social work researchers from a regional Queensland University. The Lighthouse is a diversionary service provided by the Townsville Aboriginal and Islander Health Service (TAIHS) that supports young people who are at risk or high risk of offending. The primary aims of this study were to explore the experiences of young people using The Lighthouse diversionary service; and to recruit young people as peer researchers in discussions about the services provided to them. Key results revealed high priorities for participants were physical, emotional, and cultural safety, feeling supported and not judged, and having strong connections at the service so they felt they were among mates, friends, and family. We note lessons learned about undertaking peer research with young people, and highlight the distinctive role undertaken by Indigenous workers. Findings can contribute to informed social work practice and to available literature on engaging young people as peer researchers. IMPLICATIONS Young people at risk of offending want services where they feel safe and not judged. Participatory peer research with at-risk young people can contribute to informed, evidence-based social work. Greater recognition is needed that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers play a distinctive role in maintaining cultural safety in practice and research.