APILOT scheme to transfer young offenders discharged under the Superintendents' Discretion Scheme to social workers for counselling is helping participants to start over again.
''Programme Phoenix'', a two-year scheme costing nearly $25,000, was started by the Methodist Centre early last year with the co-operation of Wan Chai police.
Participants undergo telephone interviews, take part in home visits and other voluntary services when they are transferred after permission is obtained from parents.
Social worker Virginia Lam Yun-wa, who is in charge of the scheme, said it was time for the police and social workers to work together and to achieve a division of labour.
''Police are professionals in investigation and nabbing criminals. But I am afraid they are not very good at advising offenders not to break the law again. It requires not only force and power, but also care and counsel,'' she said.
''Participants are more open with their problems and sharing their feelings with social workers. They have more confidence in us.'' The programme is expected to benefit 60 offenders. So far, 39 cases have been transferred and 10 of them closed because of vast improvement, showing the success of the scheme.
''They have more confidence to study and work and to get away from bad habits. They are more positive towards life and willing to take up voluntary services.'' Groups have been formed to encourage them to take part in voluntary work and share the problems of adolescent growth.
