Youth Diversion Projects (YDPs) are locally-based multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young people who are involved, or at risk of becoming involved, away from crime or anti-social behaviour.  They help young people develop their sense of community and their social skills through a range of different activities.  They work in tandem with other preventative initiatives within the local communities and with families at risk.

These projects are co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. Please see www.eufunds.ie for further information.

About Youth Diversion

These Projects are funded by the Department of Justice in partnership with An Garda Síochána. They are informed by the Youth Justice Strategy (2021-27) which focuses on core principles of: early intervention and prevention; family support; diversion from crime; and working harder to engage young people. 

Outcomes

All interventions delivered through Foróige YDPs, are needs-led, evidence-based and outcomes-focused, with a view to reducing the likelihood of a young person offending or reoffending. 

While every young person will have a different journey, some common outcomes from participating in a YDP are: 

• Improved educational attainment
• Reduced substance misuse
• Increased engagement with pro-social peers
• Improved parenting effectiveness
• Increase in pro-social attitudes and behaviours
• Improved use of leisure/recreation time

Get in touch

If you need access to a Youth Diversion Project, we can help connect a young person to the right support.

Contact

Miriam Ryan
Director of Targeted Services and Safeguarding, Foróige

[email protected]