Curragh Family Resource Centre highlights groundbreaking youth programme

The Curragh Family Resource Centre has highlighted the importance of it's groundbreaking youth resilience programme.

Flourish Mentored Youth Resilience Programme, a ground breaking initiative aimed at nurturing the emotional well-being and resilience of young individuals, officially celebrated it’s tenth programme.

Developed in collaboration with Dr. Daniel Perkins, Penn State University, TUSLA and Defence Forces Training Centre leaders, this programme seeks to equip children between the ages of 10 to 12 years with essential life skills to navigate challenges, build resilience, and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Angela Morrissey-Kenny, Centre Director said: "Here at the Curragh Family Resource Centre we have an integrated approach to the work we undertake, this includes our community, family support, therapeutic services and the Flourish Youth Mentored programme. Across these four areas of work, the concept of resilience as a dynamic, multi-level process of positive adaptation at individual, family, and community levels is promoted.

"We highlight the importance of promoting resilience as a cost-effective preventive measure, particularly when working with young people. The positive impact on youth mental health, has led us to developing the evidence informed Flourish Youth Mentored targeted intervention programme."

This is a comprehensive, evidence informed initiative designed to address the unique needs of children aged between 10 – 12 years. It focuses on fostering resilience, emotional intelligence, and coping strategies to help youth overcome adversity and develop a strong sense of self.

It is based on the Circle of Courage model, which is based on four main themes.

• Belonging: All participants work with Defence Forces Training Centre Mentors who provides guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for sharing experiences.
• Mastery: We offer workshops on emotional intelligence, stress management, communication, and problem-solving. These equip the participants with practical skills to navigate life's challenges.
• Generosity: Participants engage in community projects, fostering a sense of purpose and connection. They learn the value of giving back and making a positive impact.
• Independence: Through outdoor activities, team-building exercises, and reflective practices, the participants build resilience. They learn to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to adversity.

The Flourish Mentored Youth Resilience Programme aims to foster resilient, compassionate, and empowered young people who can shape a brighter future supporting them to bounce forward with newfound strength, wisdom and a sense of positive well-being.

The Curragh Family Resource Centre hopes to build a resilient generation and make a lasting impact. It aims to grow the programme, to ensure it can reach more young people.