Interactive map of youth clubs launched in Tuam
Young people consulted
A NEW online map created to help young people and their families find youth clubs, services and supports was launched in Tuam last week.
YouthMap Ireland allows users to search for clubs and services and access information on locations, contact details, facilities and accessibility. The map includes youth clubs, scouts and guides, youth information services, Irish-language youth groups and services providing more targeted supports.
The map was developed by the Department of Education and Youth, with input from young people through consultation and user testing.
It was officially launched by Minister for Education and Youth, Hildegarde Naughton at Tuam Youth Services, located in the Tuam Family Centre on the Dublin Road. It can be accessed by visiting youthmapireland.ie.
“I am delighted to welcome the launch of YouthMap Ireland and particularly pleased that Tuam was chosen as the location to introduce this national resource,” stated Galway East TD Pete Roche.
“Across Galway East, youth clubs and services provide young people with somewhere to go, someone to turn to and opportunities to develop their interests and confidence.
“However, families do not always know what is available in their area or where to begin looking. Bringing this information together in one accessible platform is a practical step towards helping more young people discover and benefit from these opportunities.”
Keep up to date
YouthMap Ireland is intended to be a living resource, with arrangements in place for updates, corrections and additions as new services emerge and existing services develop. For safeguarding reasons, some service locations will only be displayed approximately rather than precisely.
The Department will work with Education and Training Boards, national youth organisations and other stakeholders to keep the information up to date.
Its introduction was welcomed by Junior Minister for Transport Sean Canney, who sees the interactive map as a great resource for young people and their families.
“There is a huge amount of valuable work being done by youth organisations across the country,” commented the Galway East TD.
“This will be particularly useful in rural communities, where making local youth clubs and services more visible can help young people and families see what is available close to home.
“Bringing this information together in one accessible place will help more young people connect with services, supports and opportunities in their communities.”
The map is available to view by visiting youthmapireland.ie. Corrections or details of additional youth services can be submitted by emailing YAUMapping@education.gov.ie.