The teenagers recently completed their seven-month participation in Operation Headway, a police initiative to tackle juvenile delinquency in Sha Tin District.

Aged 13 to 15, the youths underwent counselling and participated in fun and educational activities organised jointly by the District and several social service groups.

The aim of the scheme, which was kicked off last November, was to identify the needs of the youths, recognise their individualities, and make use of community resources to develop their potential talents. They were referred to the scheme by their schools, community groups and Police, taking part on a voluntary basis.

Sha Tin Police Community Relations Officer Lee Loy said: "The scheme allows youths at risk every opportunity to grow without a criminal record. The present system of bringing such youths under arrest before the courts for punishment does not necessarily provide them with a meaningful opportunity. On the contrary, it can create a labelling effect.

"The scheme therefore allows youths to build their own self-esteem and reflect on the situation, setting their own goals and working out a plan to achieve them."

The youths took part in the activities up to August. A closing ceremony was held on August 15 with New Territories South Regional Commander Keith Braithwaite, Sha Tin District Fight Crime Committee Chairman Ching Cheung-ying and New Territories East Regional Social Welfare Officer Lee Wing-wai in attendance.

Mr Ching hailed the scheme and thanked Police for their assistance in fighting juvenile crime. He also encouraged the youths to put their troubled pasts behind them and start a new and better life.

The scheme is now under review by the various agencies and the general consensus suggests it be expanded in the coming year.

It will likely be with support from the Sha Tin District Board and the Sha Tin District Fight Crime Committee.

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