Youth Workers are playing a pivotal role in supporting young people navigate through today’s society. With an increase in anxiety levels, cost of living crisis, advancements in technology, introduction of A.I and the over reliance of social media, young people are faced with difficult situations. Youth workers are there as part of a support system, and in some instances the only support system.
While there are no shortage of resources and guidance on how to support young people; what about the people supporting them?
Youth workers are navigating increasingly complex challenges, often while balancing their own pressures and wellbeing. In conversations on the ground throughout the island of Ireland with youth workers, there is a feeling of heaviness, a sense of worker burnout and fatigue. As soon as one issue is resolved, another one arises and there is no time for youth workers to make sense of their experience, unpack feelings and allow space to dissect and learn from successes or challenges.
How is the YOU in Youth Work is a space created through the medium of reflective practice to allow youth workers the opportunity to:
- Unpack and discuss the needs of the young people
- Reflect on recent challenges faced by youth workers
- Share personal experiences of their role over the last number of years.
Conversations and discussions will be facilitated by those with experience in critical reflection methods.
To ensure that the youth work sector has a work force that is empowered, motivated and feels understood it is important to consider prevention and long-term solutions that focus on worker wellbeing.
There are no magic bullets or big solutions. ‘How is the YOU doing in Youth Work?’ is a facilitated space for you and your colleagues to talk and listen, a little time for some self-care for each of you.
