Health and wellbeing support
Young people involved within the youth justice program often have additional nutritional concerns compared to other young people. The history and lifestyles of this group make them vulnerable to poor body image and low self-esteem, which can lead to poor dieting practices. Many have poor food and nutrition knowledge and lack basic cooking, budgeting and shopping skills leading to an inability to make healthy food choices. These young people may also experience poor general health, including the effects of drug or alcohol use, mental health issues, poor dental hygiene, lethargy, nutritional deficiencies and being either overweight or underweight.
'A Youth Workers Guide to Nutrition for Young People' has been specially designed to provide nutrition information for youth workers, allied health staff and general practitioners working in youth justice centres with young people.
