Programme :: Youth

Commenced :: January 2003

Value :: £126,978

Measure :: 3.2 Locally-based Human Resource Training and Development Strategies

Aim :: Promote the development of a support infrastructure for young people allowing them to take full advantage of new opportunities to enable them to become the bedrock for the future.

Overview ::
The Bridge Partnership is funding a youth consortium which includes the three leading youth agencies from the District; YMCA Ireland, Youth Action Northern Ireland and Southern Education and Library Board (SELB). The project gives young people the opportunity to take part in a range of projects, courses and events which have been tailored to their needs. The project consists of three distinct elements.

Firstly, a Reconciliation and Peace Peer Project, managed by YMCA Ireland, which gives young people a chance to explore issues around the troubles and become Peer educators achieved through participation in tailored workshops and residentials.

Secondly, Youth Drama, managed by Youth Action, allows young people to communicate their ideas to the wider community and explore issues which impact on their lives.

Thirdly, a range of youth courses are managed by SELB. Through these young people can develop personal and social skills and improve their employability prospects. Courses are on topics such as CV skills, be-frienders, IT skills etc.

Objectives ::

• Support the development of a local youth sector and provide opportunities for improving community relations and employability prospects for young people.
• Target the ‘disaffected’ youth in the Banbridge District and encourage them to participate in training and skills development.

Outputs ::

• Carry out a needs analysis within the sector in the District.
• Develop a strategy and action plan for the District.
• Form and support a representative Youth Forum.
• 266 young people participating in the programme.
• 98 participants with accredited qualifications.
• 7 youth led projects established.

Quote ::
By allowing young people to tackle issues around peace and reconciliation at an early age, we are helping to lay the foundations for a better future. Bill Fleming, Project Co-ordinator

Contact ::
Bill Fleming
Project Co-ordinator, YMCA Ireland
T: 028 9032 7757
E: bill@ymca-ireland.org