We had a fantastic three days of activities and camping in Lough Dan in County Wicklow with our young people, Outdoor Learning and Youth Diversion Project Teams.
The competitions were challenging over the three days, with Swords running out the eventual winners in a wide variety of activities from archery to kayaking and lots of essential teamwork!
The camp allowed our new Harder to Engage Outdoor Learning staff to run activities for their 12 YDPs with support from the Outdoor Learning Team.
We were delighted to welcome Minister of State responsible for Youth Justice James Browne to our prizegiving.
Minister Browne presented awards to the participating teams and, speaking at the challenge, said: “The work of the Youth Diversion Projects is a vital, community-based support to the Garda Diversion Programme. The opportunity for staff to gather together over the three days of this camp to share their knowledge and expertise will no doubt bring about significant and lasting change to the lives of many harder-to-reach young people.”
The Minister also noted: “Youth diversion is not about young people avoiding punishment or consequences. It is about recognising that many young people who stray from the proper path need support and direction to get their lives back on track. The work of the YDPs benefits everyone in our communities as they work to promote pro-social activities and outcomes for young people at risk of a life of criminality. I have visited many of the Youth Diversion Projects nationally in recent years, and I have been struck by the dedication, commitment and passion of those who work on the Projects. I am delighted to be able to support Crosscare in this initiative today.”
Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) are community-based, multi-agency youth crime prevention initiatives that seek to divert young people who have been, or are at risk of becoming, involved in anti-social and criminal behaviour.
Over 100 YDPs throughout the State provide activities to facilitate personal development, promote pro-social behaviour and improve long-term employability prospects for young people.
Youth Diversion Projects are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.
