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Since the implementation of the Extended Community Support Service Scheme (CSSS) on April 1, 2019, around 750 arrested youths aged under 18 have been referred to five non-governmental organisations funded by the Social Welfare Department to receive support services. What services have these youths received? What changes have they experienced? The Family Conflict and Sexual Violence Policy Unit shares the life stories of these youths on OffBeat.
Going astray
In early 2018, 16-year-old Tony committed theft and was dealt with under the Police Superintendent’s Discretion Scheme. His case was referred to the Juvenile Protection Section of Kowloon West Region (JPS KW) and was followed up by police officers and a social worker under the CSSS. However, Tony soon had to study overseas and did not have the chance to reflect on his wrongdoing in depth. A year later, Tony returned to Hong Kong and was later arrested for robbing a passer-by and had to face trial in the District Court.
Timely intervention
Tony’s case was once again handled by police officers of the JPS KW and a social worker under the CSSS. It was learnt that Tony has a good family background and he did not commit crimes because of financial problems. He had associated with undesirable characters since secondary school and took part in illegal activities under peer influence.
As Tony might face imprisonment for robbery, his peers had cut contact with him and he lost his direction in life. Fortunately, the social worker and police officers helped Tony discover his talent in basketball and invited him to volunteer as an assistant basketball coach to develop his passion in sports.
Moving on to achieve his goal
Having served as an assistant basketball coach for six months, Tony had found his life goals and improved his discipline and interpersonal skills. The job also gave him a sense of accomplishment and motivated him to become a basketball coach. At the trial, the judge learnt about Tony’s volunteer records and his determination to turn over a new leaf, and gave him a probation order in lieu of imprisonment. Tony is now determined to focus on his studies and develop his basketball career, in order to become a role model for youths and contribute to society.
