A new mentoring program will provide vulnerable young people with the right skills and training to secure employment.
The RISEUP program aims to steer vulnerable 15 to 18-year-olds away from crime and into education, vocational training and employment.
Supported by the NSW Police and Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) youth workers, the statewide program links young people with businesses so they receive real-life, on-the-job training in the workforce.
The program also includes workshops on relationship building, nutrition, literacy, numeracy, leadership and assistance to tackle the underlying causes of crime.
Business and organisations that have joined the RISEUP program include Allianz, TAFE, Snowy Hydro, Hungry Jacks and the Commonwealth Bank.
Police Commissioner Mick Fuller APM said RISEUP is breaking through barriers to engage vulnerable young people from heading down a less desirable path in life and giving them a career start.
“Employment gives our youth a sense of achievement, pride and structure they might not be getting in a traditional family environment and it’s humbling to know we have some of the country’s biggest businesses standing beside us to support our future leaders,” Commissioner Fuller said.