New Pilot Project: Child & Youth Social Prescribing in Clonmel
- AISPN
- Apr 4
- 2 min read
We're delighted to share news of an innovative pilot project in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, that’s set to bring the power of Social Prescribing to a younger audience.
The Barnardos Family Support Project, based in Elm Park, Clonmel, has recently launched a Child & Youth Social Prescribing pilot service – the first of its kind in the region. This initiative is a partnership between Barnardos, HSE Sláintecare, and Tipperary Children and Young People's Services Committee (CYPSC) and is designed to connect children aged 6 to 12 years and their families with local community-based activities to support their social and emotional development.
While Social Prescribing is well established within adult services, this project takes the concept and tailors it specifically for children and families with Level 2 needs on the Hardiker scale – offering a strengths-based, non-clinical approach to wellbeing that engages children in activities they enjoy.
The Child & Youth Social Prescriber will work closely with children and their parents/carers to:
• Identify the child’s interests and needs
• Map out local clubs, groups and hobbies suitable for their age
• Facilitate participation in these social or sporting activities
• Support families to overcome barriers to engagement
• Sustain involvement beyond the initial intervention period
The post is grounded in Barnardos’ long-standing commitment to child welfare and family support in South Tipperary. With 18 years of local experience and strong multi-agency collaboration, this pilot has the potential to significantly improve outcomes for children by increasing their sense of connection, confidence, and wellbeing through meaningful community participation.
The AISPN warmly welcomes this innovative step and will follow its progress with great interest. It represents a hopeful expansion of Social Prescribing’s reach – one that recognises the role of community in early intervention and preventative care for children and families.
For more information about this service, contact Jane Hayes, Child and Youth Social Prescriber Link Worker, Barnardos, 140 Mountain View, Elm Park, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, Telephone: 052 6170665.
We look forward to reading and sharing learnings and outcomes from this pilot as it evolves.