– We propose to set aside NOK 20 million for one-to-one follow-up of young people who either commit repeated and serious crimes, or are at risk of ending up in criminal environments, says city council leader Eirik Lae Solberg (H) to Oslo newspaper.
In the additional recommendation to next year’s proposed budget, they write that the increase of NOK 20 million means that the scheme will have funding of NOK 25 million next year.
– In the districts with the most vulnerable young people, the one-to-one efforts are strengthened, among other things, with more mentors. In addition, new districts are being considered for inclusion in the scheme, the city council writes in a press release.
– We will use mentors who accompany the young people for large parts of the day, says Lae Solberg to Avisa Oslo.
The changes come after the government put extra funds on the table for the municipalities on 1 November. For Oslo, this means that Oslo will receive a total of around NOK 640 million extra to this year’s and next year’s budget.
In the additional recommendation, the city council also proposes, among other things, to give the Prindsen reception center NOK 12.3 million annually in fresh funds for measures and increased security. The Prindsen reception center is a municipal emergency service in the center of Oslo for people with substance abuse problems, and was temporarily closed in October by the Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority due to concerns about the safety of the employees. It reopened on Friday last week.
The city council will also set aside 105.6 million to increase the districts’ social assistance budgets, and 131.4 million more to buy housing for the disadvantaged.
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What are the key components of the proposed one-on-one follow-up programs for at-risk youth mentioned by Thomas Berg?
**Interview with Thomas Berg, Youth Crime Prevention Specialist**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Thomas. We understand that there’s a new proposal that aims to allocate NOK 20 million for one-on-one follow-up programs for at-risk youth or those who have committed serious, repeated crimes. Can you elaborate on the motivation behind this initiative?
**Thomas Berg:** Thank you for having me. The primary motivation is to provide targeted support for young people who are in precarious situations, whether due to environment, personal circumstances, or previous involvement with the law. Our research shows that personalized follow-up can significantly reduce recidivism and help these individuals reintegrate into society.
**Interviewer:** What specific strategies or programs do you envision implementing with this funding?
**Thomas Berg:** We are looking at a multi-faceted approach. This could include mentorship programs, counseling services, educational opportunities, and vocational training. The goal is not just to address the criminal behavior but also to tackle the root causes, empowering them to make positive life choices.
**Interviewer:** How do you plan to measure the success of these interventions?
**Thomas Berg:** Success will be gauged through various metrics, including reduction in crime rates among the participants, improvements in school attendance and performance, and overall personal development. We’ll also involve feedback mechanisms to ensure the programs are responsive to the needs of the young people involved.
**Interviewer:** In your experience, what are some of the biggest challenges in working with at-risk youth?
**Thomas Berg:** One of the biggest challenges is building trust. Many of these young individuals have faced significant trauma and may be skeptical of adults or authority figures. It’s essential to approach them with empathy and patience, creating a safe space where they feel valued and heard.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the community regarding this initiative?
**Thomas Berg:** I want the community to know that investing in our youth is investing in the future. By supporting these programs, we’re not only helping individuals but the community as a whole, fostering a safer and more inclusive environment. Collaboration between families, schools, and local organizations will be crucial in making this initiative a success.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Thomas, for sharing your insights on this important initiative.
**Thomas Berg:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss it!
