New government service for vulnerable teens

Jersey's government says a new specialist team will give help to vulnerable teenagers earlier.

A dedicated Adolescent Team has been created to work with teens who deal with issues like going missing, exploitation, family breakdown, and mental health.

They will focus on building trusted relationships, developing their confidence, improving their wellbeing, and strengthening connections with their families, schools, and communities.

The government says there will also be closer working between services - like with the youth service, health, education, and police - so concerns are identified sooner, information is shared more effectively, and support is given before problems escalate.

It says one young person who has been supported this summer shared their feedback anonymously:

"I remembered I love being up early and being out in the sea. I don't want to be sleeping all day."

Their mother added: "The support they received has helped more than you can imagine."

Donna Marriott, Director of Children, Young People and Families Services says this demonstrates the powerful difference that early help can make.

"Behind every story is a young person with their own hopes, worries and ambitions. Our focus is on understanding what matters to them and building the trusted relationships that can help them through difficult periods in their lives."

Mark Capern, Associate Director of Young People's Services says they want every young person working with the Adolescent Team to feel safe, valued and supported:

"Ultimately, our goal is to help create brighter futures for young people and their families."

Constable Richard Vibert, Minister for Children and Families said: "By bringing services together and intervening earlier, we can identify risks sooner and provide the right support at the right time. This work is already changing lives across Jersey by helping vulnerable young people stay safe, build resilience and achieve positive outcomes."

Worried about a child or young person? 

Immediate danger or risk to a child? Call 999

Non-emergency police concerns: States of Jersey Police on 01534 612612

Safeguarding or child protection concerns: Children and Families Hub on 01534 519000

Additional support is also available:

Youth Enquiry Service (YES) - Confidential advice, mental health support and guidance for young people, 01534 280530

NSPCC Jersey - Specialist support for children, young people and their families who have been impacted by sexual abuse and sexual harm, 01534 760800

Childline is available 24 hours on 08001111 and online at childline.org.uk

Parents and carers can also access advice through the NSPCC Adult Helpline on 0808 800 5000