What is youth work?
Youth work is above all, an educational and developmental process.
It’s based on the principles of young people’s voluntary participation, starting from where young people are at and recognising young people and youth workers as partners in a learning process.
In youth work, young people are active partners in making decisions, planning programmes and setting priorities. Youth work and the relationship between youth workers, volunteers and young people is based on constructive discussion between young people and adults.
Most importantly, it’s also about young people having fun. Meeting new friends and like-minded young people in a safe space to be themselves.
What kind of activities happen in youth work?
Youth work can offer amazing opportunities for young people to get involved in different programmes and activities including arts, global citizenship, intercultural exchanges, STEAM, rights and equality issues, health and wellbeing, among many others!
It’s also really important in developing life skills like as leadership, teamwork and decision making.
Many young people and youth workers talk about how it can help build self-esteem and confidence, while for some young people it ensures they become more active citizens with a strong awareness of issues affecting their communities.
Youth work is flexible and youth workers and volunteers embrace young people’s interests so they can be reflected in the activities they take part in.
What age do I have to be in to take part in youth work?
Generally, youth work organisations work with young people from the age of 10 up to 24.
How is it different to the kind of learning that happens in schools?
The most important thing to remember about youth work is that young people participate in it voluntarily.
Unlike school, they can “take it or leave it”, and take part as much or as little as they like.
Youth work is also a collaborative process, and it gives young people a strong say in the kind of learning they do. It’s one of the few places where young people have the power to make decisions, follow them through and take responsibility for the consequences in a safe and supportive environment.
This doesn’t mean that youth work can’t help young people in their formal studies. Youth work is complementary to formal, academic or vocational education and training, and helps young people develop vital skills.
Where does youth work happen?
Youth work takes place in a wide range of settings, including youth clubs, dedicated youth centres, outreach and detached projects (also known as street work), youth cafés, youth arts groups, in scouts and guides, youth action and participation groups and drug and alcohol projects.
Effectively, wherever young people are at.
Do many young people actually take part in youth work?
The reach of youth work in Ireland is huge.
Participation rates among young people in youth work in Ireland are the second highest in Europe.
More than 7 in 10 people know of a youth work organisation in their community, and we know that over 1.65 million Irish adults have taken part in their lifetime.
Are there different types of youth work?
Yes, there are various types of youth work, each designed to meet different needs and interests. These include:
- Detached Youth Work: Engaging with young people on the streets or in public spaces rather than in a specific youth centre.
- Project-based Youth Work: Focused on specific projects like arts, sports, or environmental activities.
- Youth Information and Counselling: Providing information, advice, and support on various issues.
- Youth Clubs and Groups: Regular meetings in a community setting offering a range of activities.
- International Youth Work: Opportunities for young people to engage in exchanges and projects with peers from other countries.
What does a youth worker do?
A youth worker supports, mentors, and educates young people in a variety of settings outside of formal education. They plan and facilitate activities that promote learning, personal development, and community involvement. Youth workers also offer guidance and support on personal and social issues, acting as trusted adults who can help young people navigate the challenges they face.
Types of youth worker
There are several key types of youth workers, including:
- Community Youth Workers: Work within specific communities to support young people.
- Detached Youth Workers: Engage with young people in their own environments, such as streets or parks.
- Specialist Youth Workers: Focus on specific areas like mental health, substance use, or employment for example.
- Youth Support Workers: Provide support and assistance to lead youth workers, often involved in planning and running activities.
There are many different types, but each youth worker plays a crucial role in fostering the development and well-being of young people, tailoring their approach to meet diverse needs and interests.
How long has youth work been about?
Youth work has a long history in Ireland, going back to the end of the 19th century!
It is has come a long way since then, but true to its nature it remains flexible and evolves with young people’s needs over time and is still rooted in the idea of young people’s voluntary participation.
How can I or a family member get involved in a local youth club or group?
To find a local youth club or service, you can:
- Check the members page of the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) website for a list of youth organisations.
- Visit your local council’s website or contact them directly for information on community youth services.
- Search online for youth clubs or organisations in your area.
- Ask at schools or community centres, as they often have details about local youth services.
What are the benefits of youth work?
Youth work has a transformative impact on many young lives.
There is strong evidence to show that it promotes personal development and growth, improves physical and mental health and wellbeing, offers a safe space for young people to be themselves, enhances social responsibility and connections with adults and improves hard and soft skills important in formal education and work.
It also:
- Builds young people’s capacity to consider risks and consequences in order to make informed choices and take responsibility.
- Develops abilities to manage personal and social relationships.
- Improves self-esteem and confidence.
- Gives young people a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
- Offers young people the opportunity to talk and be listened to.
- Helps develops social awareness and active citizenship.
- Provides learning opportunities to gain knowledge and develop new skills.
