Service Innovation

& Support

At 16 Yards, we offer two core services to support young people connected to the justice system: Lived Experience-Informed Co-Design and Communities of Practice. Both services are designed to create practical, evidence-informed solutions that empower young people to step away from crime and towards better opportunities, while supporting organisations to
deliver more impactful services.

Lived Experience-Informed
Co-Design

Our Co-Design sessions bring together young people with lived experience of the Victorian youth justice system to co-create innovative solutions that lead to positive outcomes. Facilitated by Shayne Hood and Dr Stephane Shepherd, these sessions provide a safe, inclusive space where participants’ voices are valued, and their insights are integral to shaping real-world strategies.

We work closely with participants to build practical pathways towards education, employment, and personal growth—grounded in what works in their lives, not just in theory. Our approach ensures that solutions are not only creative but also realistic, helping young people walk away from challenging situations and towards meaningful futures.

These sessions can also be tailored to meet the specific needs of your organisation, ensuring that the solutions are aligned with your goals and challenges. If deemed appropriate, organisations can actively participate in the co-design process, contributing their insights alongside the young people and fostering a deeper, collaborative engagement that benefits everyone involved.

By harnessing the insights of those with lived experiences and fostering collaborative environments, we cultivate a dynamic approach that not only informs practices but also drives meaningful change in the lives of young people and the communities they belong to.

Lived Experience-Informed
Communities of Practice (CoP)

Our Communities of Practice (CoP) create a collaborative space for professionals working with young people connected to the justice system. This service fosters shared learning, cross-sector collaboration, and the application of evidence-informed strategies, helping organisations enhance their impact and adapt to the complex needs of justice-involved young people.

The CoP can bring together lived experience young people, youth justice workers, social services, mental health professionals, education providers, legal advocates, and community organisations, ensuring a multi-disciplinary approach to addressing young people’s challenges and spaces for growth. Guided by strengths-based practices, the CoP is built around regular reflection, knowledge sharing, and the co-development of practical tools like the 16 Yards practice model.

At 16 Yards, we’re committed to creating spaces where young people can redefine their futures, and where professionals can enhance their impact through shared learning and collaboration.

Why Partner with 16 Yards?

Authenticity and Expertise
Our services are grounded in real-world experience, led by experts in co-design and youth engagement.

Tailored Solutions
Our co-design sessions can be customised to meet the specific goals of your organisation, allowing you to actively participate in the process.

Collaborative Innovation
Both our co-design sessions and communities of practice encourage new ideas and solutions grounded in lived experience and evidence-informed practices.