School suspension and expulsion numbers have increased significantly across Ireland since the Covid-19 pandemic, according to new figures from Tusla. Knowing that students who experience suspension are more likely to disengage from the education system, become involved with the juvenile justice system and are more likely to experience homelessness, what are we doing to prevent the escalation of these issues?
The Irish Times recently reported an almost 70% increase in suspensions between 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. Áine Lynch of the National Parents Council and Dr. Hannah McGinley cited the urgent need for wrapraround services and targeted supports for young people to address escalating behavioural issues in schools.
At YMCA Dublin, we run an Alternative Suspension (AS) programme, which supports students who are at risk of disengagement from education, or have been suspended.As an alternative to the traditional exclusionary school suspension approach, AS is an internationally proven intervention, originally researched and developed by YMCA Canada, which offers targeted support and advocacy to help ensure better educational outcomes and positive changes to youth mental health & well-being.
Students are empowered to work through their difficulties in a constructive manner and last year, we saw a 43% reduction in negative behaviours amongst participants following just 3 months engagement with the programme. Following the first year of AS, we have experienced a 14% increase in referrals and have engaged with 6 additional schools, not all of whom we can accommodate.
Minister for Education, Norma Foley, recognised the need for a framework for students who are at-risk of becoming disengaged from education in last year’s report on the review of out-of-school education provision. Recommendations from the review outlined requirements for “a standardised referral framework to provide clear structure, guidelines and accountability”.
The AS programme offers a structured framework that has been proven effective and we believe that this is a service that can be rolled out nationwide to address this need. This programme can act as a preventative social intervention to disrupt the suspension cycle, which is one that disproportionately affects vulnerable and at-risk youths. However, state support and investment will be required to make this happen.
Supports, such as Alternative Suspension, need to become a national government priority to help support vulnerable students, prevent educational disadvantage and transform the future outcomes for young people and their wider communities.
If we fail to invest in our youth, who will?
How YMCA Dublin Helped Jake Find His Way
Jake was referred to YMCA Dublin's Alternative Suspension (AS) programme, which is designed to support students facing challenges in traditional school settings. Recognizing his need for personalised support, he transitioned to the PlusOne Youth Mentoring programme, marking a pivotal moment in his journey. With one-on-one guidance from a dedicated mentor, Jake learned to reflect on his choices and explore new possibilities, gradually rebuilding his sense of control. With this support, he re-engaged with education through Youthreach, and discovered interests in mechanics and childcare. “I was lost, but now I have a direction,” he said, reflecting the significant impact this intervention has had on his journey.
The Role of Community-Based Programmes in Mental Health
YMCA Dublin's holistic wraparound approach tailors services to meet each individual’s specific needs, providing young people like Jake with a strong foundation for making informed choices and pursuing brighter futures. This comprehensive model addresses immediate challenges while fostering resilience and self-efficacy—critical components for sustaining long-term mental well-being.
Jake’s journey exemplifies the vital role community-based programmes play in the broader mental health landscape. Initiatives such as Alternative Suspension and PlusOne Mentoring equip youth with essential tools to navigate challenges, stay engaged in education, and build emotional resilience, particularly in underserved areas where poverty and social disconnection heighten mental health risks.
By offering a wide range of services, including youth mentoring, educational initiatives, and family support, YMCA Dublin serves as a crucial resource for addressing the complex challenges faced by at-risk youth. This wraparound model ensures that no issue is treated in isolation, promoting sustainable well-being and development for those in need.
Supporting Programmes That Support Youth
As mental health challenges among adolescents continue to escalate, sustained investment in community-based programmes is essential. YMCA Dublin is actively expanding its reach through the development of new community hubs across Dublin, ensuring that vital support services are accessible to underserved communities.
This World Mental Health Day, we must recognise the importance of a holistic approach that combines community support with access to professional care. Continued investment in early intervention programmes like PlusOne Mentoring and Alternative Suspension is critical to helping young people like Jake overcome challenges, make positive choices, and thrive. The well-being of our youth and the future of our communities depend on it.