Celebrating our Youth Advocate Volunteers

Wednesday, 04 December 2024

Jigsaw proudly marks International Volunteer Day by announcing its achievement of the prestigious Investing in Volunteers (IiV) quality standard.

This milestone not only recognises Jigsaw’s dedication to supporting and valuing volunteers but also highlights the vital role of its 150+ Youth Advocate Volunteers, who are driving change and amplifying young voices in Ireland’s youth mental health system.

Ireland’s youth mental health system is facing unprecedented challenges. Over-stretched and under-resourced, it struggles to meet the growing demand, with long wait times and insufficient funding creating significant barriers for young people seeking help. In this difficult context, Jigsaw’s Youth Advocate Volunteers are stepping up to bridge the gap, advocating for urgent reform and ensuring that the voices of their peers are central to discussions about mental health.

Dave Kavanagh, Jigsaw's Voice & Engagement Manager

"This award is a testament to the dedication, passion, and drive of our volunteers, who are at the heart of everything we do at Jigsaw. At a time when the youth mental health system is under immense pressure, their efforts are not only inspiring but essential. We are equally grateful to the staff and team members who work tirelessly to support and empower our volunteers."

The Critical Role of Youth Advocate Volunteers

Jigsaw’s Youth Advocate Volunteers are uniquely positioned to influence meaningful change in youth mental health services. They draw on their lived experiences to:

Amplify young voices in national conversations around mental health;
Advocate for more accessible and youth-centred services;
Drive awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health.

Their stories reflect the resilience and determination of Ireland’s young people and underscore the urgent need for systemic improvements to meet growing demand.

Recognition Through the Investing in Volunteers Standard

The Investing in Volunteers (IiV) quality standard is the national benchmark for organisations involving volunteers. Jigsaw was assessed across six key areas in 2024, excelling in each:

Vision for Volunteering
Planning for Volunteers
Volunteer Inclusion
Recruiting and Welcoming Volunteers
Supporting Volunteers
Valuing and Developing Volunteers

The Chair of the UK Volunteering Forum

"We are delighted to announce Jigsaw’s successful attainment of this award. They have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to volunteering and met nationally recognised standards in their volunteer management practices."

A Call for Reform

This recognition comes at a pivotal moment. As Ireland’s youth mental health system continues to face immense strain, Jigsaw’s Youth Advocate Volunteers are leading the charge for urgent reform. Their work ensures that young people’s voices are not just heard but are central to shaping solutions for a more equitable and effective system.