YRIPP Independent Person

Youth Referral & Independent Person Program (YRIPP) Independent Persons are volunteers who support young people at police stations when a parent or guardian is unavailable. Trained volunteers are added to a 24/7 roster system coordinated by YRIPP staff for police stations across Victoria, including Bayside.

What we are looking for:

• Volunteers who are open minded, have good communication skills, are able to be assertive, and are willing to learn and receive feedback
• We welcome volunteers from a diverse range of ages and backgrounds
• Please note: Serving police officers, currently practicing lawyers and bail justices cannot become YRIPP volunteers due to a conflict of interest

The commitment:

• All volunteers are required to complete approximately 25 hours of initial training
• A minimum commitment of 12 months after successfully completing training is expected
• Availability to be rostered on for 1-2 shifts per week across a 12-hour period (the length of each call-out varies and volunteers are not called up every shift).

What volunteers get out of it

• The opportunity to be part of a well-renowned volunteer program and to make a difference in the lives of young people in the community.
• Get to meet other like-minded volunteers.
• Gain experience and knowledge of Victoria’s legal system.
• Support from YRIPP staff and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Comprehensive training covering a broad range of topics, including: Victoria’s youth justice system; culturally responsive practice; working with young people in police custody; diversion and referral; and much more!

For more information, visit YRIPP or email volunteer@yripp.org.au