We promote health, well-being and social acceptance among young people in Castlederg and the surrounding areas

Who we are…
A group of over 300 young people participating over the past three years; 12 young people on the committee

Where we’re based…
Castlederg, Northern Ireland

When we started…
June 2004

How we started…
Motivated by the overwhelming extent of sectarian violence in the area, Castlederg Youth Forum brings together Catholic and Protestant young people to promote understanding and improve relations between the different communities. Our programme of activities also addresses the most common complaint from local young people that there was nothing to do in their community.

Our work…
The youth committee meets fortnightly to plan our services. These include young parents’ programmes, games days and workshops on issues such as health, social problems, drug and alcohol abuse, and sexual awareness. Each committee member represents an area of Castlederg and we relay information back through our schools, churches and clubs. We also publish and distribute promotional material. Recently we did a presentation to the Health Boards on the loss of the local hospital.

Future plans…
We hope to open a drop in centre for all young people – including ethnic minorities and immigrants – run by young people, on neutral territory for easy access. We want to provide activities on Friday and Saturday nights as well as during the week.

For more information…
02 8816 70636
margaret@castledergyouthforum.co.uk
www.castledergyouthforum.co.uk

“CDYF listen to the views of young people and do their utmost to improve their future through training, activities, info zone and advice. Its work on getting both religions together has been amazing and not something I thought I would see happen in Castlederg. Most of all CDYF is informal and FUN, FUN FUN!"
Niall, age 15, member of Castlederg Youth Forum