Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Most of our youth programmes require registration, which helps us ensure appropriate staffing and resources. However, some drop-in services are available without pre-registration. Each Project or Service page will specify registration requirements and social media posts and posters will provide contact information.
Our youth centres are located across Galway City & County. We also run outreach programmes at various community venues throughout Galway. Check out our "Locations" page for specific details about each site.
Our programmes and services are primarily designed for young people aged 10-24. We have specific activities tailored to different age ranges within this group, including pre and early teens (10-14), mid-teens (15-17), and young adults (18-24).
We are a youth work organisation dedicated to supporting children and young people aged up to 24 years, their families and communities. We provide a safe space for young people to connect, learn new skills, access support services, and participate in community activities that foster personal growth and development.
Programmes and Activities
Yes! We run special programmes during school breaks, including summer camps, day trips, and workshops. These programmes are typically announced before each school break on social media.
Our core programmes are free of charge but sometimes we ask for a small fee to offset costs. This will always be specified from the start.
We offer a wide range of programmes and activities including: Creative arts and expression, sports and physical activities, support to stay in or return to education, critical thinking and leadership skills, mental health and wellbeing supports, Youth Information including career options, community and civic action, social activities and events
Getting Involved
We welcome volunteers! Adults interested in volunteering can complete an application on our website. Check out our Join Us section. We also offer student placement opportunities for those studying in third level education. All staff and volunteers working with young people undergo garda vetting and reference checks.
For young people under 18, we require parental/guardian consent for participation in most programmes. For those 18 and older, parental involvement varies. We encourage family support while respecting young people's growing independence.
Young people can get involved by: Visiting our centres during drop-in hours or advertised registration events, registering for a specific programmes online, Attending one of our community events, Having a parent/guardian contact us on their behalf (for those under 18), Reaching out through our social media channels
Safety and Inclusion
We are not the first line of service for a young person experiencing an immediate mental health crisis. In the event of an emergency please contact a GP during the day or attend your nearest Accident and Emergency Department or ring 112 or 999. Useful contact numbers include the Samaritans freephone 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.ie or text hello to 50808 to access the Text About It service.
Absolutely! We offer study groups, CV workshops, interview practice, and connections to work experience opportunities. Our staff can also advocate for young people in educational settings when needed.
Yes, we offer various levels of mental health support, including peer support groups, one to one support, and a youth counselling service. For more intensive support needs, we can provide referrals to more specialised mental health services.
Support and Services
Yes, we strive to make our programmes accessible to young people with physical disabilities. Some of our Centres are wheelchair accessible, and in other locations we can access other spaces to deliver programmes. Please contact us to discuss any specific needs or to arrange a site visit in advance.
Yes, we are committed to being inclusive of young people of all backgrounds, abilities, cultures, religions, gender identities, and sexual orientations. We actively work to create spaces where everyone feels welcome, valued, and respected.
Child Safeguarding and safety is our top priority. We maintain appropriate staff-to-young people ratios, conduct Garda Vetting and reference checks on all staff, provide training, maintain safe facilities, and have clear Safeguarding policies and procedures for responding to concerns. Our activities are supervised by qualified youth workers and trained volunteers. You can view our Child Safeguarding Statement in the footer below
Contact information
We welcome all feedback. Please speak with a staff member, contact our CEO at 087 6487187 or irene.murphy@youthworkgalway.ie or submit via our ‘contact us’ form on the website. Please also see our policy for receiving feedback
You can reach us by: Phone: 087 6487187 Email: info@youthworkgalway.ie In person: contact via the above to arrange a meeting or attend one of our registration events
Our Services
At Youth Work Ireland Galway, we are dedicated to fostering the potential of young people. Our programmes focus on personal development, community involvement, and building essential life skills.
Contact us
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