Youth Theatre Ireland receives award for LGBTQ+ inclusion

Following an 18 month process, a delegation of Youth Theatre Ireland staff, Soundboard and Board members attended the celebration.

Here we had the opportunity to meet with other youth services who also received their awards and enjoyed hearing from insightful speakers and youth panelists. It was a true celebration of inclusive youth work practice.

The Belong To Rainbow Award is a holistic approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion in youth organisations that involves the whole community. Over the course of 12 months, Youth Theatre Ireland were supported in implementing evidence-based actions across a number of key areas, which research shows improve the wellbeing and safety of LGBTQ+ youth.

The Rainbow Awards are valid for three years, after which time there will be renewal process.

Speaking at the ceremony, Alan King, Deputy Director of Youth Theatre Ireland said:

"As a National Organisation, Youth Theatre Ireland leads the way. We lead by example, and we model positive behaviours and attitudes and embrace difference.

By participating in the Rainbow Awards, Youth Theatre Ireland shows its members, that:

Yes, We do care,
Yes, We look out for you,
Yes, We value you,
Yes, We’ll create a safe space for you.
You can come here and meet other young people and adults who are just like you.
You can come here and meet young people and adults who are not like you, but:
They will respect you,
They will care for you
They will have your back.

So today, we don’t just accept an award. We renew a promise. A promise that, at Youth Theatre Ireland you are safe, you are seen, you belong."

Belong To is the national organisation for LGBTQ+ young people in Ireland. Belong To offers youth groups, advice, information, and crisis counselling for LGBTQ+ youth, and supports LGBTQ+ youth groups across Ireland. They also campaign to ensure policy is informed by the voice and experiences of LGBTQ+ young people.