Supporting families, early childhood education and school retention are the key factors in helping people beat the poverty cycle.
Griffith University criminologist Professor Ross Homel AO will outline practical methods and tools to help schools and community agencies lift children and families out of intergenerational cycles of poverty and welfare dependence when he delivers the Keith Hancock Lecture in Brisbane on Thursday, March 8.
“Firstly, we need to support families to provide the best possible home environment, whether that’s practical, economical or emotional support. Let’s start with the assumption that every parent wants the best for their child,” he said.
“Secondly, get the kids into early childhood education at age three, not four. Get them into an enriched kindergarten or pre-school environment, not just child care.
“Thirdly, keep kids at school. One of the biggest risk factors in youth justice is the lack of attachment to school.”
Professor Homel, who was instrumental in creating a