Research & Publications
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03/03/2014
Summary of Research Findings
This evaluation study concludes that the YAP programme is implemented as intended, with treatment fidelity. Managers and Advocates working for YAP Ireland believe in the YAP model, and are also positive about the application of the YAP model in practice, and the benefits for the young people and families participating in the programme. The reported improvements as evidenced by the qualitative data and quantitative SDQ findings represent significant positive outcomes for the young people participating in the YAP programme. The outcomes show improvements in factors which enhance wellbeing, as described in the literature. Happiness and health are associated with physical participation in life, spending time with friends and a sense of belonging within families and communities (Lalor, De Róiste & Devlin, 2007). Correspondingly, resilience and the maintenance of wellbeing in the presence of adversity have been linked to individual factors such as self-esteem and leisure interests; social factors such a sense of belonging and a pro-social peer group; and community factors such as attachment to community networks and access to support services (National Youth Health Programme, 2004). These reported findings in relation to wellbeing suggest that there are clear positive outcomes for young people who participate in the YAP programme.
Download a copy of the full research report below or to view the Executive Summary of the report please click Executive Summary
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30/01/2014
In 2013, YAP Ireland worked with a UK based group Investing in Children to review how YAP promote young people’s rights in our work. We felt that this was a good opportunity for YAP to put forward our strengths based approach and commitment to involving young people in all aspects of our work. In order to become members of Investing in Children, we invited the IiC assessor to come to Ireland and meet with young people involved in our programmes around the country. In November 2013, Rob Johnson came to YAP and met with groups of young people in all our regions. He asked the young people about they are involved in developing and reviewing their service plans and how they can make their voices heard on a local and national level also. Rob also met with staff members and with the YAP Youth Forum. In December, Investing in Children awarded the four YAP regions, Investing in Children membership.
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27/03/2013
YAP (Youth Advocate Programmes) Ireland announced an 86% improvement in the self esteem and confidence of young people on YAP Programmes. This is a major indicator of the improved mental health and wellbeing of young people who availed of the YAP service. YAP Ireland supports young people to deal with many negative life issues such as mental health difficulties, bullying and cyber-bullying, access to education, and suicidal thoughts. By promoting positive mental health and wellbeing of young people referred to the service, YAP Ireland provides an invaluable support for young people in creating a better future for themselves in their local communities.
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26/09/2011
YAP Ireland is a lead agency in providing a real voice to young people and families through participation work. The Education Event was one of a series of events to enable young people and family's views to be heard. Each YAP Programme has both parent and young people's participation groups. Each group worked together to create art, stories, drama and other creative media to showcase their feelings, thoughts and ideas for change in Education at the Education Event. The choice of education as the topic for the national event indicates how important education in the broadest meaning of the term is for young people and families. The report summarises the main themes arising from the roundtable discussions and the young people's and families practical solutions for change.
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29/04/2004
As part of the agreement between the Western Health Board and the Youth Advocate Programme, the Child & Family Research and Policy Unit was requested to undertake an evaluation of the programme in its first year of inception.
