The goal of the programme is not just to nurture artistic skills but also to support the emotional and social wellbeing of participants, helping them find pathways into communities and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. Coordinated by local community worker and creative professional Cein Daly, the programme ensures each participant receives personalised support to explore their creative interests, working alongside skilled facilitators and accomplished artistic practitioners from the community to guide them on their creative journey. 

The project is an interagency collaboration between Creative Ireland, Tusla, Limerick Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CYPSC), Limerick Arts Office and Learning Hub Limerick. A wider steering group also includes EPIC, the Limerick and Clare Local Creative Youth Partnership, Limerick Youth Service, Limetree | Belltable and Mary Immaculate College Drama and Theatre Department. It is funded primarily through Creative Ireland’s Youth Nurture Fund. It specifically targets young people between the ages of 17 and 23 who are transitioning from care or are already in aftercare. 

The programme is designed to support the young people by guiding them as they identify and engage in creative opportunities that speak to their unique experiences and interests. This tailored approach helps to include those who may be most vulnerable or overlooked by traditional aftercare services, providing them with meaningful avenues for creative expression and community engagement. For young people leaving the care system, life after care can be challenging and isolating. The absence of a stable support network can lead to feelings of disconnection, making it harder to navigate adult life. The Creative Aftercare Communities Project offers an alternative means of engagement through creativity, which has been proven to improve mental health, build resilience, and foster a sense of belonging. By focusing on young people who may not have access to traditional resources, the programme offers them an opportunity to connect with themselves and others through creative exploration. 

The partnership between Creative Ireland and Tusla has been instrumental in providing a structured yet open space for participants to explore a variety of creative disciplines. From visual arts and music to drama, digital media and gardening, the programme encourages young people to express themselves in ways that feel authentic to them. In addition to individual creative projects, the programme also facilitates opportunities for collaboration, allowing participants to connect with peers who share similar backgrounds and experiences. Learning Hub Limerick, which serves as the main base for the project at present, is more than just a venue – it’s a dynamic community space where participants can access mentorship, learn new skills, and build relationships with other young people. With resources designed to help them grow both personally and professionally, the Learning Hub plays a vital role in providing a safe and welcoming space for creative expression and social connection. One of the project’s key goals is to build a sense of community and break down social barriers for young people who may feel disconnected from society. By offering opportunities for young people to showcase their work – through art exhibitions, performances, and other creative events – the project helps to build confidence and encourage positive relationships. These shared experiences foster a supportive environment where young people can develop lasting connections and find their place within various communities. 

With its innovative approach and focus on empowerment, The Creative Aftercare Communities Project is a step in the right direction for supporting young people in aftercare. As the pilot programme progresses, it is hoped that it will inspire similar initiatives across Ireland, creating a network of creative opportunities that can reach young people nationwide.