A long-time St Philip educator is calling for permanent counsellors in schools to provide support to young people directly affected by crime within their immediate family circles, as the island’s rising crime rate continues to have a ripple effect on society.

Betty-Lyn Estwick raised her concerns at the St Philip Ideas Forum held at the Princess Margaret Secondary School on Monday, where she recalled instances of children who witnessed crimes committed by family members later going on to commit similar offences.

Estwick suggested that dedicated counsellors at each school can monitor children showing signs of going down the wrong path, and help steer them away from a life of crime.