Abstract: Submission #282

Abstract Working with children in conflict with the law is a field which is receiving attention globally. It is a daunting task that can be best dealt with through collaborative efforts. Despite intervention through diversion programmes, children in conflict with the law still reoffend. The current prescripts are quiet about parental involvement when they are rehabilitated through diversion programmes. Some programmes are implemented in a disjointed manner owing to scarcity of resources. This study was qualitative in nurture.The study employed a phenomenological research design that is steeped in a qualitative research approach. Data collection was done through semi-structured, face to face interviews. The target population was parents of children in conflict with the law who undergone diversion programmes in the Department of Social Development. The purpose of the study was to explore how parents could be involved in diversion programmes of their children. The sampling method applied was purposive sampling which is a form of non-probability sampling. The sample size was determined through the principle of data saturation. Data was analysed using thematic analysis which is very useful in qualitative research studies. In order to ensure adherence to ethical protocols, the following were applied throughout the study, informed consent, confidentiality, anonymity, beneficence, management of information and debriefing. The main findings of the study suggest that parental involvement is crucial in the implementation of diversion programmes. The findings further proffer that supervision and specialty in probation service are major concerns as well as lack of resources. Therefore, programmes aimed at training, capacitating, and empowering probation officers and parents should be developed.
Keywords: Parents, diversion programme, social work, social development, probation officer.