Dismantle has returned to Banksia Hill Detention Centre for another series of BikeRescue programs.
Banksia Hill DC is Western Australia’s sole juvenile detention facility, accomodating remanded or sentenced young people aged 10-17 years. Of which, less than half are sentenced, with nine males to every female and 76% of an Indigenous Australian background (Department of Justice, 2019).
Incarcerated youth experience more complex barriers to attaining socially-esteemed roles within society compared to other disengaged young people; including homelessness, deficient family support, limited education and work experience, mental health conditions and substance use (Crabtree et al., 2016). Moreover, these individuals have limited opportunities to engage in social, educational and vocational activities due to poverty and marginalisation (RACP, 2011).
Detainees on good behaviour were invited to participate in BikeRescue, refurbishing a bicycle for themselves to keep once released. Initially, participants conveyed very little optimism for their futures upon release.
“I’m worthless, too far gone . . . No one would hire me even if I tried.” (Male, 15).
“I won’t get a job now ‘cause I’m locked up. There’s no opportunities for me.” (Male, 15).
However, towards the end of the program these individuals appeared to grow in confidence in their ability to develop new skills and pursue employment opportunities. One program graduate expressed a renewed hope towards achieving his dream job, stating “I didn’t think I could do it before this”. Initially stating “I can’t” several times each session, another participant was later observed completing mechanical tasks for one of her peers. After a few sessions, one individual expressed an interest in studying and working within mechanics, asking BikeRescue Mentors in-depth questions about their employment and training and requesting to attend BikeRescue’s workshop once released.
Over the course of 2020, a total of 50 juvenile offenders participated in BikeRescue. On average, each participant of the five-day program had an attendance of 95%. The main incentive and motivator for participation was receiving a bicycle, which participants expressed upon arriving to their first session. Participants with approaching court dates appeared more motivated to finish their bicycles in order to take them home. Ten participants indicated plans to engage with Dismantle post-release for volunteering, training and vocational opportunities, particularly older individuals.