Media Statement Monday 26 August

FYD Statement On ‘Break Away’ And ‘Fresh Start’ Govt Youth Initiatives Announced 26 August 2009

The Foundation for Youth Development (FYD), a leading organisation in the field of youth development in New Zealand, commends the ‘Break Away’ and ‘Fresh Start’ youth initiatives announced by the Prime Minister, John Key, this week.

FYD welcomes the preventative nature of the ‘Break Away’ package, in particular the Holiday Activity Programmes and Residential Respite Camps which offer young people positive activities which they would otherwise not have access to.

And, although awaiting the finer details, FYD is pleased that the Government is investing $72.4m over the next four years in the ‘Fresh Start’ package to assist youth offenders to rehabilitate and become positive members of their communities.

FYD co-founder and mountaineer, Graeme Dingle, said: “Since its beginnings in 1994, FYD’s core business has always been about reaching out to young people so they avoid stepping onto a negative path – prevention over cure – a much more positive and ultimately cost-effective approach for New Zealand.

“However, we see the need for programmes to help those young people that have gone down a negative path to turn their lives around. FYD has taken over the management of EdgeLife Skills’ MYND programme for youth offenders.

“MYND involves an initial camp which triggers the ability to make better choices which are supported by long-term counseling and mentoring support – vital factors in the success of the programme.”

Ends

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