Alison McDaid, who receives a Diploma in Higher Education at Magee today, is an outreach youth worker with Derry's “Off the Streets” group - and she  goes about her work in the Greater Shantallow of the city with extra confidence these days.

She and her co-workers put into practice experience which they have gained during five years of advising, helping and listening to young people who face pressures and an uncertain future living in sprawling estates which lack youth facilities.

Her new confidence-boost comes from knowing that she’s doing it the right way. For the past three years she and other part-time students have been studying at the University of Ulster Magee campus, learning the all important theory behind their vital work. Today , Alison she is among 20 recipients of the Diploma of Higher Education in Community Youth Work. It is the first time that professional awards in the sector have been awarded at Magee.

 “Having the Diploma validates my work, it adds value to what I am doing. When you do things in a certain way, you obviously hope it’s the correct way. In the Diploma course, I’ve had the benefit of learning the theory. It’s a great backup to know the whys and wherefores of various approaches. It strengthens the ability to do things the right way.”

“Off the Streets” tries to create a safe environment in which young people can overcome problems and realise their potential. Its workers walk the streets each day setting up direct youth contact, calling in at schools, holding citizenship classes and organising activities to develop young people’s personalities and talents.

“There aren’t a lot of facilities in Greater Shantallow. We’re out there speaking to the young people on their own turf, finding out what they want, trying to provide advice, even just listening so they know they can come us if they are in trouble.” After completing her A-levels, Alison gained an HND in Social Care at the NWIFHE. She later joined “Off the Streets” as a volunteer, eventually becoming a full-time worker. “ I would hope to do a full time degree in Community Youth Work if the degree course is put on at Magee.”

For further information, please contact:

Martin Cowley
Telephone: 028 71675083
Email: Martin Cowley