CYP Now - My Life: Louise Dolan, 21, Northern Ireland

I have been part of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum (NIYF) for around two years. Before getting into the NIYF, I had no real ambitions - I didn't know where I wanted to go in life and was working in a call centre, which just wasn't for me.

A work colleague directed me to the NIYF and this is where my life started to move.

Since being a part of the NIYF, I have obtained my OCN (Open College Network) Level 2 and 3 in Youth Work and Programme Development, as well as my OCN Level 3 in Future Leadership.

I have also gained a lot of experience in working with young people in group settings, as well as on an individual basis, and I am now able to get paid work as a youth worker.

With support from Phil Glennon, a participation worker with the NIYF, I applied to do several courses, including my degree in youth work.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included