Hello John,
I’m writing to thank you for your support and to update you on our analysis of what Budget 2023 means for young people and youth work.
We are deeply disappointed by the increase in current funding of youth work by only 1.6%. With inflation set to be 5.25% for 2023, this is effectively a cut.
What next?
We will now be working with Government officials to press the point that:
- Funding for youth work in Budget 2023 is insufficient as youth organisations and young people deal with the cost-of-living ahead of winter. Especially as our members have seen more demand for services and increased deprivation in communities.
- A solution is needed. Government must include youth work organisations in its energy support package for community and voluntary organisations. They need support through the winter months to avoid any reduction in their essential services.Â
What you can do
Please support our call by sharing this message:
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Why is this so important?
You’ve seen the powerful individual stories such as Eileen's of the difference youth work makes in young people's lives. This budget doesn't provide enough help for youth organisations to support young people like Eileen.
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The stark results of a recent survey of our member organisations really brought home the scale of the issue we face John:
- 73% of our members agreed or strongly agreed they had seen an increase in deprivation amongst young people in the communities they work in, as a result of the increase in the cost of living;
- 72% had experienced an increase in demand for services in the last six months;
- 72% said that their heating costs have increased;
- 41% said increased energy costs have resulted in a reduced budget for the organisation.
Despite a very disappointing Budget, this is also an opportunity to mobilise to ensure youth work thrives. We will keep you updated as our engagement with Government continues.
Warmest regards and thank you again for your support John,
Mary
Mary Cunningham
CEO
National Youth Council of Ireland
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