# The Diagrama Model: A Transformative Approach to Youth Justice The **Diagrama Model** is a **rehabilitation-focused** youth justice system from Spain that prioritises **education, therapeutic support, and vocational training** over punishment. It has significantly **reduced recidivism** (13.6% vs. 80-96% in traditional detention) while being **more cost-effective**. The model uses **re-education centres** instead of prisons, employs **mentors instead of guards**, and helps young people transition to **education or employment**. It offers a scalable, evidence-based alternative to punitive youth detention systems. ## How the Diagrama Model Works Diagrama operates **re-education centres** across Spain, offering an **individualised, community-centred** approach to youth justice. These centres function differently from conventional detention facilities by integrating **education, personal development, and community reintegration** as core components. Key aspects of the model include: 1. **Therapeutic, Education-Focused Environments** - Young people receive **formal education (30+ hours per week)** and vocational training. - Centres emphasise personal development through **psychosocial support, counselling, and positive relationships** with staff. 2. **Highly Trained, Stable Staff** - Staff members **mentor rather than guard** young people, fostering **trust and personal growth**. - Low staff turnover ensures **continuity of care**, leading to stronger, more positive relationships with residents. 3. **Vocational Training & Employment Pathways** - Young people develop **practical skills** in areas like horticulture, carpentry, arts, and digital skills. - More than **70% of young people** leaving Diagrama facilities **continue education or secure employment** within six months​. 4. **Holistic Support (Mental Health, Family, Substance Use)** - Interventions are tailored to individual needs, addressing **mental health challenges, substance abuse, and family relationships**. - Family engagement is encouraged to **support reintegration** upon release. 5. **A Structured, Incentive-Based System** - A **graduated autonomy system** allows young people to earn more **freedom and responsibilities** as they demonstrate progress. - Rewards, rather than punishment, shape behaviour, fostering a **positive, growth-oriented culture**​Diagrama Impact on Youth. ## Impact of the Diagrama Model Diagrama’s outcomes demonstrate **the effectiveness of its rehabilitative approach**, offering an alternative to punitive youth justice models. ✅ **Dramatic Reduction in Recidivism** - Spain’s national recidivism rates range from 30-50% in traditional youth detention. - Diagrama facilities report **only 13.6% recidivism over six years**, showcasing **long-term behavioural change**​Diagrama Impact on Youth. ✅ **Cost-Effective** - Traditional youth detention in Australia costs approximately **$1,500 per young person per day**​ - Diagrama’s model is **significantly more cost-efficient**, with an estimated **€3.80 return on every €1 invested over five years**. ✅ **Safer, More Supportive Environments** - Unlike traditional youth prisons that rely on **security measures and confinement**, Diagrama centres operate with **minimal force and restraint**. - Young people feel **safe and respected**, which encourages meaningful rehabilitation​ ✅ **Stronger Community Reintegration** - **70%+ of young people** leaving Diagrama’s centres successfully transition to **education or employment** within six months. - **Family and community engagement** are built into the process, ensuring **ongoing support post-release.**​ ## Why Diagrama Works & How It Can Be Adapted The Diagrama model is successful because it **treats youth justice as a social, educational, and rehabilitative issue rather than a criminal one**. 🔹 **Youth are seen as capable of change** – focusing on **empowerment, personal growth, and skill-building** rather than punishment. 🔹 **Facilities are designed as "re-education centres,"** not punitive prisons, fostering **respect and dignity**. 🔹 **Collaboration between justice, education, mental health, and social services** ensures holistic support. ## Potential for Implementation in Australia Bringing the Diagrama model to **Queensland or other Australian states** could help **reduce recidivism, cut costs, and provide young offenders with a real pathway to reintegration**. A proposed pilot could focus on **Indigenous-led adaptations**, incorporating **culturally responsive approaches and community leadership**