In recent years there has been an increase in the number of youths who have been identified as having a combination of criminal behaviours, mental health issues and child welfare problems.
Historically, individual agencies have attempted to deal with each of these issues separately based on each agency’s mandate and area of expertise. However, given the complexity of the issues seen in youths in conflict today, the historical singular agency approach has been found not to be an effective method of assisting such youths in today’s society.
Today, a more integrated and holistic approach to the problem of youth at risk is called for. The formation of the Alliance for At Risk Youth Team (AARY”) reflects the cooperating agencies’ commitment to such an approach and employing a team approach with at risk youth that focuses on the proactive management of the risky behaviours.
The involved agencies include: Guelph Police Service