A police interview is not a place you would expect to find a community volunteer.
However, when a young person is arrested and interviewed by police, they can count on the support of an Independent Person (IP) to help them through their brush with the law.
One such volunteer is Narre Warren resident Marg Tinschert, who has helped over 400 young people in contact with the police during her decade with the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program (YRIPP) program.
“I love the chance to help a young person make a difference to their life,” Ms Tinschert says.
“Some young persons are really keen to break the cycle of bad friends and influences in their life. With proper counselling there is always the chance that these changes can be made.”
The YRIPP supports young people in police interviews across Victoria. Volunteers are trained as an IP to support young people in police interviews when a parent or guardian is not available.
Volunteers also link young people into support services to help address any issues they may be facing.
The program is currently seeking volunteers to join its ranks in the area.
YRIPP volunteers are independent of the police and justice system. They are trained in police and legal processes, and working with young people.
Ms Tinschert says 99.9 per cent of the young people she sees are “very pleased and relieved to see an IP show up.”
“Especially so in the middle of the night; having my hand shaken, along with a broad grin is the best feeling. A simple thank you is always very pleasing and makes getting out of bed on a cold, rainy night seem very worthwhile,” she says.
YRIPP services over 150 police stations throughout Victoria, including in Dandenong, Cranbourne and Narre Warren, and currently hosts around 300 volunteers who support more than 3,500 young people in police custody each year.
Program Coordinator of YRIPP Lawrence Ussher said volunteers have a unique view into the workings of the justice system. “From that vantage point they can embolden young people to make real and positive changes in their lives.”
Residents of Dandenong, Cranbourne, Narre Warren or surrounds interested in volunteering with YRIPP can call 039340 3777 or visit www.yripp.org.au for more information.
