Galliagh Area Youth Programme in Derry
Supporting young people in Galliagh to grow, connect and thrive through creative, inclusive youth work through the EA Local Area Youth Provision for Galliagh.
Youthstart is a free open-access youth programme for young people aged 9-18, delivered by Greater Shantallow Community Arts. We provide a safe, inclusive space where young people can take part in creative activities, build confidence, develop skills and connect with others in their community.
Open to juniors (ages 9–13) and seniors (ages 14–18), our youth programme offers something for everyone.
Or find out more information below!
A New Era of Opportunity
For over 26 years, Greater Shantallow Community Arts and Studio 2 Derry have been at the forefront of delivering innovative, engaging, and high-quality youth provision in the Galliagh area.
We are dedicated to creating safe, inclusive, and creative spaces where young people can grow, thrive, and realise their full potential. Through a wide range of programmes - including mentoring, confidence-building, and skills development - we support young people in building resilience, exploring their creativity, and developing essential life skills.
Now, with support from EA Youth Services, we are delivering a fully funded Open Access Youth Programme for the area.
Over the next three years, we are committed to creating as many opportunities as possible for young people to engage, connect, and thrive.
Our programmes will offer a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment where every young person is valued as an individual. Through innovative and engaging youth work, we will support young people to build confidence, develop resilience, and unlock their full potential - while enjoying a fun, creative, and enriching journey
Weekly Programme
Our sessions are open to Juniors (ages 9–13) and Seniors (ages 14–18), with a wide range of activities running throughout the week.
From creative workshops and games nights to group work, youth voice, and volunteering opportunities, there’s something for everyone. No two days are the same - sessions are designed to be engaging, supportive, and shaped around the interests of young people.
If this sounds like something you’re interested in, register today and get started. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch - we’d be happy to answer any questions and help you find the right session for you.
Studio 2
St Pio Parish Centre
St Brigid’s College
Meet the Youth Team
Aislinn Breslin
My role will focus on supporting accessible, inclusive, and high-quality youth provision that reflects the needs, voices, and ambitions of young people in our community. I’m excited to build strong partnerships, develop new opportunities, and support positive outcomes for young people throughout the area.
Please feel free to reach out, connect, or say hello - I look forward to working with you all!
Youth and Development Manager
Rachel Hribar
My role focuses on creating a safe, welcoming environment where young people feel comfortable, supported, and able to be themselves. I’m passionate about building positive relationships, offering guidance, and encouraging confidence and resilience, helping young people to navigate challenges and grow in a way that feels right for them.
Youth Support Worker
My role focuses on engaging young people through creative, fun, and meaningful activities that build confidence and connection. I enjoy supporting young people to explore their interests, develop new skills, and feel part of a positive environment where they are encouraged to express themselves and reach their full potential.
Youth Support WorkerEllie Dunne
FAQs
-
The programme is open to young people aged:
9–13 (Junior sessions)
14–18 (Senior sessions)
-
Yes. New young people are welcome to join throughout the year. Registration is required before attending, and families can get in touch any time to learn more.
-
Activities include:
Creative arts and clubs
Games nights
Group work and discussions
Youth voice and leadership opportunities
Team-building activities
Volunteering pathways
Peer mentoring
-
No - while YouthStart takes place in the Galliagh area as part of the EA Local Area Youth Provision for Galliagh, we welcome young people both from Galliagh and from surrounding areas across Derry.
Our programme is built around inclusion, diversity, and creating a safe, welcoming environment where every young person feels valued, respected, and supported. Whether you’re attending on your own, with friends, or joining for the first time, everyone is welcome to get involved, connect with others, and take part in our creative and community-focused activities.
-
The aim is to help young people:
Feel supported and included
Build confidence and life skills
Make positive choices
Become active members of their community
-
There are no strict requirements for attendance, but we would absolutely encourage young people to attend as much as they can when it suits them!
For any young people who sign up to take part in any structured sessions, such as OCN opportunities when they arise, it is important that they are present to complete these.
-
YouthStart sessions take place across a number of venues throughout the week. Venues vary depending on the day, session, and age group.
Locations are listed in our timetable and include Studio 2, St Pio Centre, and St Brigid’s College.
-
Both. The Youthstart programme blends creative activities with a strong social element, giving young people space to express themselves and connect with others.
-
The drop-in is led by Local Area Based Youth Development Leader in Charge for the Galliagh Area, Aislinn Breslin and supported by a team of experienced youth workers.
-
We aim to make the programme as inclusive and accessible as possible for all young people. For more detailed information about facilities and supports, please see the accessibility section of our website or contact us directly if you have any further questions.
-
Yes. The programme focuses on:
Confidence building
Emotional wellbeing
Social skills
Resilience
Pathways to education, training, or employment
-
Yes, registration is required before attending for the first time. You can register online in advance, or arrive at the start of any session with a parent/guardian and register then.
-
No, it is completely free to attend - open access!
-
Absolutely. Young people are encouraged to share ideas and help shape activities based on their interests.
-
Yes. Our youth workers understand that new environments can feel overwhelming and are there to offer gentle support, help young people settle in, and make sure everyone feels comfortable taking part in a way that suits them.
-
Yes. The drop-in is designed to be welcoming and easy to join, even for those coming along for the first time.
Sessions are designed to be relaxed, welcoming, and engaging. Young people can take part in activities, meet new people, build confidence, and spend time in a safe and supportive environment.
-
You can contact:
Phone: 028 7135 8750
Email: info@gscaderry.com
For Youth Programme enquiries:
Aislinn Breslin - ailsinn@gscaderry.com
-
Once you register, you will receive email updates notifying you of any venue changes, timetable adjustments, holiday closures, or other important announcements.
You can also stay up to date via our social media pages, where we regularly post information.
A Place to Belong. A Chance to Grow.
