Garda Youth Diversion Projects (GYDPs)

Garda Youth Diversion Projects are local community based activities which work with children. These projects aim to help children move away from behaving in a way that might get them or their friends into trouble with the law. They can help children develop their sense of community and their social skills through different activities.

The Ball Project works with young people in the Ballybeg, Larchville & Lisduggan estates of Waterford City. Project Leaders: Pamela Farrell 087 2380257 and Matt Spinks 086 7703304.

SWAY Project Works with young people from 12 – 18 years old in and around St. John’s Park.

PACT Project is based in the inner city and Ferrybank areas worked with participants ages of 12-18 years. The project works primarily with Juvenile Liaison Officer referrals, but also with young people at risk in the inner city and Ferrybank areas. Project Leaders: Majella Keating 087 6287000 and Jean Murphy 086 6167424.

TYRE- Tramore Community DAY Project. Project Leaders: Niamh Foley 087 6504778.

• To identify the young people who are involved in or who are risk of becoming involved in crime • To improve the life quality and expectations of the young people involved • To raise the self-confidence and self-esteem of the young people • To divert the young people by using positive and fun programmes in which they have an active role • To challenge inappropriate behaviour • To encourage learning and development skills and talents in the young people • To promote positive relations between the Gardaí and the target communities • To actively involve the Gardaí in programmes with young people • To assist in the development of inter community communications and work