Assistance available at Woy Woy court

The Central Coast Children's Court Assistance Scheme will be available at Woy Woy Children's Courts.

Woy Woy will share funding of $114,600 over three years with Wyong Children's Court

Minister for the Central Coast, Mr John Della Bosca, launched the scheme recently at Wyong Local Court.

"This is a tremendous initiative with the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of children who come before the courts," Mr Della Bosca said.

The scheme provides a roster of trained youth workers to help young people and their families at the court before, during and after their court appearance.

The volunteer support workers can provide information about what happens in court, what to do and what the outcome means.

"Their role is not to provide legal advice, but practical and emotional support for young people and their families," Mr Della Bosca said.

"By providing answers to young people's questions, anxieties can be avoided and young people are less likely to feel angry and alienated by the justice system.

"The scheme's youth workers can explain the court processes and outcomes, offer informal counselling and conflict resolution, help young people to access drug and alcohol programs, welfare services and accommodation," he said.

"They can also assist with written information and reading material, explain the court layout and the roles of the sheriffs officer, chamber magistrate, duty solicitor, court staff and juvenile justice officers,"

The scheme is based on a model developed by the Macquarie Legal Centre at the Lidcombe Children's Court in 1995.

Press release, February 13