UNISON organiser, Seán Brady, today welcomed the outcome of the recent campaign to save outreach/detached worker posts in Belfast. Under threat were 13 outreach detached worker posts delivering front line youth services in some of the most marginalised communities across the city.

He Said “When outreach/detached workers were again put on protective notice this year, with jobs and services threatening to end on April 30, youth workers, community representatives and trade unions, including UNISON, coalesced to build pressure to save our members posts and this crucial service.

“Their loss would have been immeasurable and would have had a detrimental impact on young people across the city who are beyond the reach of mainstream youth services.

“This service remains a vital component of youth work within the city. UNISON will be campaigning to ensure that these posts are given recurrent long term funding in recognition of the priceless service they afford to young people and their communities.”

Niall Enright, UNISON member and chair of the campaign to save the services welcomed the decision to extend funding for a further 11 months.

He Said:

“The allocation of funding to sustain this service for another year will mean 13 dedicated youth workers on the streets of Belfast helping to challenge and change the conditions affecting our young people.

“However, we need to make sure we are not in the same position next year. We need to use this opportunity to create a conversation between the department of education, youth workers and  local communities, to ensure that essential youth services are planned and delivered in a more coherent and long term manner in future. I hope this campaign is the last of its kind.