Compass points young people away from risk

PROJECT

Compass Aspire

PURPOSE

To intervene early and prevent risky behaviour turning into a major problem

FUNDING

The service costs ú180,000 a year and is commissioned by Coventry Council

BACKGROUND

When young people are at risk of getting into trouble – whether that's substance misuse, early sexual behaviour, or an exploitative relationship – there are usually warning signs. The charity Compass's Aspire scheme is an innovative early intervention service that works with young people at risk, giving them one-to-one support to help them make positive changes in their lives.

ACTION

The Aspire service, which launched in May 2012, works with young people aged 11 to 16, or up to 20 if they are looked after. It takes referrals and uses a screening tool to identify those who would benefit, working with all 19 secondary schools in Coventry and relevant agencies. Often young people may appear to be doing well but indicators that they are at risk include requesting emergency contraception or STI screening, sending sexual text messages and explicit images or embarking on a relationship with someone who seems quite controlling. "They may have experimented with substances but are not actually using them on a regular basis so we intervene before that becomes regular use," explains service manager Sharon Bolesworth.