Co-Production of the Design of Traveller Youth Mental Health Service (2025)
The mental health and well-being of the Traveller community in Ireland have long been a significant concern. Recognised as a priority group in national mental health strategies such as Sharing the Vision and the National Suicide Prevention Strategy Connecting for Life, Travellers experience disproportionately high levels of mental health difficulties and suicide rates. Despite this, there remains a critical lack of comprehensive data and targeted interventions, particularly for young Travellers.
To address this gap, Exchange House Ireland was awarded funding in2021 from the Community Foundation/Toy Show Fund to co-produce adesign for a National Traveller Youth Mental Health Service (NTYMHS).
Over 20 months, a dedicated team engaged with young Travellers acrossIreland to develop a model for a national service aimed at supporting andpromoting the well-being of those aged between 10 and 20 years.
This report presents the findings of this initiative, including an overview ofthe challenges young Travellers face, the gaps in existing mental healthservice provision, and recommendations for a culturally appropriate,community-led response.
 |
Co-Production of the Design of Traveller Youth Mental Health Service |
