NCJ Number
215009
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 25 Issue: 2 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 17-24
Date Published
June 2006
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This paper presents the findings from an analysis of the RRISK (Reduce Risk Increase Student Knowledge) school-based harm minimization program in reducing the risk of drug and alcohol use, specifically the elements of RRISK driving the program.
Abstract
The Reduce Risk Increase Student Knowledge (RRISK) partnership exhibits many qualities of a successful partnership. Formation and maintenance of the partnership have contributed to increased capacity within the area to address adolescent risk-taking. In all, there is a high level of commitment to the program from all internal and external partners and a fairly high level of confidence in the future of the program and its capacity for sustainability. Key elements identified in the success of RRISK include: (1) before the program is initiated it is necessary that commitment is gained from key stakeholder organizations and endorsed by the management; (2) all partners must understand both the culture of the partnership and the key responsibilities of each member organization; and (3) to remain effective, such partnerships need clear role definition and agreed processes. Based on these elements, it is recommended that such programs establish partnerships that are clearly focused on a single long-term goal, one that all partners share. RRISK is a school-based harm minimization program in Northern New South Wales (NSW). It aims to provide adolescents age 14 to 18 years of age with skills to make informed decisions about risks associated with drug and alcohol use. The evaluation examined partnership characteristics associated with the project’s sustainability, and identified important principles that might be applied in similar projects. References