Launch of YouthMap Ireland strengths access to services in Mayo
THE launch of YouthMap Ireland, a new national interactive map designed to help young people, families and communities easily find youth clubs, projects and services in their local area, will have major benefits for Mayo, where dozens of youth organisations will now be more visible and accessible to the public.
Minister of State Alan Dillon described YouthMap Ireland as 'a game-changer' for communities in Mayo.
He said: “For the first time, every youth club, project and support service in our county will be visible on one easy to use platform. This will help young people and families quickly find the opportunities available to them, whether that’s a Foróige club, a Youth Work Ireland project, an Irish language youth group or targeted supports.”
He highlighted how the new platform will significantly improve access to information for rural communities across Mayo: “We have outstanding youth organisations working right across Mayo, from Ballina to Belmullet, Castlebar to Claremorris, and in smaller rural towns and villages. YouthMap Ireland will make it easier for families to discover what’s available locally, strengthening participation, wellbeing and community engagement.”
He added: “This is a practical tool that will help ensure young people in Mayo can connect, participate and thrive. It also shines a light on the incredible work of youth workers and volunteers who support young people every day.”
YouthMap Ireland is developed by the Department of Education and Youth and brings together information on youth clubs, UBU Your Place Your Space services, Youth Information Centres, Scouts and Guides, Irish language youth clubs, Comhairle na nÓg, TYESI projects and more.
The platform was shaped through consultation with young people to ensure it is accessible, user-friendly and responsive to their needs. Users can search nationwide and access details such as service locations, contact information, facilities and accessibility features.
The map is available at youthmapireland.ie.