Deer Park's Mylinh Huynh knows that and has helped 30 youths during two years of volunteering with the Youth Referral and Independent Person Program (YRIPP).

Ms Huynh is an "independent person" who sits in when youth are interviewed by police, providing them with information about their rights and referring them to other services for help.

Ms Huynh, who has seen people as young as 10 being interviewed by police, said those accused of assault were the hardest to deal with.

The 28-year-old social worker responds to callouts to police stations in Brimbank and surrounding areas at any time of the night.

She said summer was the busiest period, with several calls recorded each week.

"A lot of the kids come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They're going through a lot of issues that affect their behaviour.

"There are some who come from a traumatic upbringing, they're the ones I enjoy the most. I'm able to make a connection with those that are most vulnerable."

The service works with more than 2500 youth in 108 police stations across the state each year.

Keilor Downs' Senior Sergeant Wayne Moed said police accessed

the service at all hours of the day, which reduced any delay they may experience in interviewing a young person.

"Keilor Downs police is an extremely busy station and we appreciate the service YRIPP provides to young people in custody."

Melton's Katherine Price has also volunteered for the service and has attended 20 callouts during two years of helping out at Caroline Springs and Melton police stations.

People interested in volunteering have been asked to contact YRIPP on 93403777 or visit www.yripp.org.au