Young people in Donegal facing challenges

CHILDREN and young people in Donegal are facing significant challenges, a new report has found.

Donegal Youth Service, in partnership with Donegal Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CYPSC), has officially launched the Donegal Children and Young People’s Needs Assessment 2024.

This ground-breaking report provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges, opportunities, and urgent needs of children and young people across the county.

Key findings reveal gaps in access to mental health services, public transport limitations, long waiting lists for essential supports, and the impact of social media on young people’s well-being.

The report also highlights the strengths of Donegal’s youth services, including strong community ties, access to sports and outdoor activities, and a high level of engagement from young people and their families.

Speaking at the launch, Lorraine Thompson, CEO of Donegal Youth Service, said: “This report is a vital tool for shaping the future of Donegal’s children and young people. It ensures their voices are heard and provides clear, evidence-based recommendations to improve services, resources, and opportunities across the county. We urge policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders to work together to bring these recommendations to life.”

Commissioned with the support of Tusla, the HSE, Donegal County Council, and other key partners, the report offers a data-driven foundation for decision-making, policy development, and service improvements.

Marie Crawley, Tusla area manager and chairperson of Donegal CYSPC officially launched.

She said: “This report is an important resource for all agencies responsible for the welfare and well-being of children and young people in Donegal. It gives us clear direction in terms of what we need to do to achieve the best possible outcomes for young people across the county. Importantly, the report speaks directly from the perspectives and opinions of young people themselves. We now have a collective responsibility to act on its findings and implement its recommendations individually as agencies and collectively as CYPSC.”

The Donegal Children and Young People’s Needs Assessment 2024 will serve as a roadmap for targeted interventions and funding applications, empowering local organisations to advocate for meaningful change.

The full report is available online at https://reader.experios.com/57221/5778/?page=18

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