![Sample our Health and Social Care journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5938/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Health-Social-Care.jpg"})
Abstract
The role for staff within the residential youth justice facility is an intense one, offering both reward and challenge. Post-traumatic stress related to serious episodes of violence and vicarious trauma relating to the abuse and neglect derived from the residents' personal narratives are common. In recent years a residential center in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia has experimented with provision of a Staff Support and Supervision Program (SSSP). This article describes the context which gave rise to the program, its multi-theoretical underpinning, and its modus operandi. A qualitative evaluation highlights practice challenges and leadership techniques. The model is now being applied in two other Victorian youth justice centers.
The author would like to acknowledge the support of current and past management and staff of Parkville Youth Residential Centre. They have assisted greatly with this article and with the evaluation described herein. She would also like to thank especially the social workers who have acted as supervisors at the Centre, Dr. Jenny Dwyer (during the initial six month period) and the current supervisor, Ms. Stacey Livis (who has assumed the role for almost four years, since 2006). Their input has been invaluable. The author's colleagues in the International Association for Outcome Based Evaluation and Research in Family and Children's Services, especially Dr. Karen John and Dr. Chris Warren-Adamson (UK) and Professor Robyn Munford (New Zealand), have been most helpful in suggesting international links for the program described.
Notes
1. This Unit is named in recognition of the lifelong commitment of Justice Eugene Cullity, Chairperson of the Victorian Youth Parole Board, to the well-being of young people within the Australian youth justice system.