New Report Reveals Extent of Faith Based Youth Work

YouthNet will launch the release of its report on its recent research into faith-based youth work taking place across Northern Ireland on 2 March in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

One of the key findings of a research report published on behalf of YouthNet's Faith Based interest Group is that 68 per cent of youth groups registered with their local Education and Library Board in Northern Ireland are faith/church based.

The report goes on to say that 74.4 per cent of all volunteer leaders in registered youth groups in Northern Ireland are volunteering in faith/church based groups.

Youthnet has commented that this piece of research marks a significant step forward in recognising the extent of faith/church based youth work in Northern Ireland and its positive contribution to social capital in local communities.

The report also recommends that the Interest Group should continue to work with YouthNet members and statutory youth work agencies to address the common issue of segregated provision in the context of developing a Shared Future in Northern Ireland.

YouthNet is the Voluntary Youth Network for Northern Ireland, an independent agency which represents the interests and aspirations of more than 75 youth organisations in Northern Ireland.

The report has been drawn up by the YouthNet Faith Based Interest Group that includes representatives from youth departments within the Church of Ireland, Methodist and Presbyterian churches and Youthcom, YMCA, Youth Link NI, Catholic Guides for Ireland, Boys Brigade and Youth Initiatives.

Full details of the report can be found on www.youthnetni.org.uk