NCJ Number
135883
Date Published
1991
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The development of project DARE in the Northern Territory of Australia is described from the perspective of school-based community policing.
Abstract
The program provides accurate information about drugs and alcohol and teaches students decision making skills and ways to resist negative peer pressure. A trial program was implemented at two Darwin Primary Schools, and, after a positive community response, was offered to all primary schools in towns where school-based constables are located. The DARE program is part of the larger school-based community policing (SBCP) project which provides children with a better appreciation of law and order issues and the police and fosters effective communication between police and young people. A related program is the Junior Police Rangers scheme which teaches safety and other skills ordinarily not taught in schools. These may include outdoor education, survival skills, self development, and leadership. The Blue Light disco scheme provides entertainment for children as well as interaction between youth, police, and community, and is a good revenue base for other recreational facilities and assistance.