Simon's Story

Jun 05, 2017

Simon was referred to Whitelion Outreach by a family services agency. Simon had a number of matters before the courts and was attending a course aimed at young people that have trouble engaging with services after being formally exited by his mainstream school for non-attendance. Simon was very disengaged and would not talk to anyone about upcoming court dates support needs and his future. Simon does not see his father and Simon’s mother was unwell and been undergoing treatment.

Whitelion provided support through the Street Outreach. Simon would not talk to workers other than to answer yes or no to questions. Whitelion worked closely with Simon to gain his confidence and show that Whitelion would not be just another service that would disappear of off the scene when things got difficult. Whitelion worker attended court on a number of occasions with Simon as well as liaising with his youth justice worker to ensure Simon understood his bail conditions. Whitelion continued to meet with Simon on a regular basis and slowly gained Simon’s confidence to the point where Simon now has conversations with Whitelion worker about his past history and the reasons that Simon was involved with other young people committing crimes. Simon was also charged with additional serious offences.

Simon is currently attending a social enterprise that teaches young people a trade when he is deemed ready will be transitioned into an apprenticeship. Simon now communicates regularly with Whitelion and has been able to articulate the reasons why he broke the law and that he does not want to continue down the same path. Simon has told Whitelion that he wants to become a  tradie running his own business, whilst also being able to look after his mother so that she does not have to worry about him or money. Simon has also asked Whitelion for help with his resume and has applied to a number of local jobs for part time work to help his mother until he can start an apprenticeship.