“Going the extra mile”: A mixed-methods evaluation of an early-intervention youth coaching and diversion programme

In recent years, concerns about young people's disengagement from education and meaningful community networks have garnered increased public attention. This research evaluates Resolve, an early-intervention youth coaching and diversion programme developed and piloted by a leading community service in a socially disadvantaged community in Southeast Queensland, Australia. A mixed-methods, case study design combined quantitative data of pre- and post-outcome measures with field observations and semi-structured interviews to assess the effectiveness of the programme. Findings demonstrate that Resolve achieved significant positive changes and reductions in risk profiles alongside major gains in subjective well-being, motivation, goal achievement, and community connectedness amongst participants. Outreach and diversion activities created soft-entry opportunities to intensive coaching, and relational, consistent, and trauma-informed practices promoted engagement and positive outcomes. In collaboration with a range of community services, stakeholders, and government agencies, Resolve provided holistic, youth-centred support and contributed to the evidence regarding the effectiveness of youth coaching and diversion programmes.