Merivale youth worker Lizzie Macrae is leaving the position after nearly three years in the role.
Lizzie was based at the Merivale Community Centre and sought to address youth issues in the area.

Lizzie Macrae is finishing her tenure at Merivale Community Centre this week.

She identified alcohol and school related problems as the biggest issues facing Merivale youth.

Her role included advocacy, assisting troubled youth during the court process, helping to find jobs, organising sports nights, facilitating leadership programmes and mentoring.

One of the youths she mentored will take over as Merivale's new youth worker.

She says some youth in Merivale do not fit into the education system and that can cause ongoing problems.

'One person asked me if I was the person who looked after the kids that got kicked out of school, but I see it as looking after youth who don't fit with the school system.”

This year she has concentrated much of her efforts on tackling alcohol issues in the area.

She says many youth choose to drink because they have nothing else to do.

Through her role she has managed to organise activities, such as a photography workshop, that engaged youth in more constructive activities.

Lizze's last day is Friday, October 29.