New team launched to support vulnerable teenagers

Vulnerable teenagers in Jersey are to get support earlier through the launch of a new specialist team.

A new dedicated adolescent team was to work with teenagers facing a range of challenges, including exploitation, going missing, family breakdown, mental health difficulties and other complex issues, project leaders said.

The initiative was being run by the Jersey Youth Service, health and education leaders, police and other partners with the aim to "identify concerns sooner, share information more effectively and provide support before problems escalate", they added.

The work was to "identify risks sooner and provide the right support at the right time", the also said.

Constable Richard Vibert, said teenage years can be a challenge but by "intervening earlier, we can identify risks sooner and provide the right support at the right time".

The government said the team would look to build "trusted relationships with young people" in a bid to help them develop confidence, improve their wellbeing and strengthen connections with their families, schools and communities.

Mark Capern, associate director of Young People's Services, said he wanted every young person working with the team to "feel safe, valued and supported, with trusted adults around them who believe in their potential".

"Our goal is to help create brighter futures for young people and their families."

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.