Jigsaw annual report 2022

Our community-based therapeutic services, which consists of one-to-one and online supports continued to develop this year. Every one of us is unique and there is no one-size-fits-all. Jigsaw recognises the needs of our young people and recognises the need to adapt and ensure that the young person is at the centre of the core service we provide. We are learning and adapting all the time. Nothing happens without the critical people involved in this process, our young people, our staff, our volunteers, our funders and our board. They are the heart of this organisation. I want to thank all of them.

Jigsaw has a central role in prevention and early intervention in youth mental health in Ireland. Our position as a service in the primary care setting is influenced by demands and pressures on the wider mental health services, most notable this year with Ireland’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). Jigsaw, alongside others in the voluntary sector, calls again for increased and focused funding for youth mental health that supports the active implementation of Sharing the Vision, the government’s policy for the continued development and enhancement of mental health services in Ireland. Thank you for your continuing support.

I feel Jigsaw is unique in that the voice of young people is not only heard at all levels, but it is also truly valued. In Jigsaw, young people really can implement policy and bring about change. I have always been passionate about youth mental health. I have my own personal experience of struggling within the mental health system, and growing up in an area with high levels of poverty and disadvantage. I've seen many people I know and love, including family, friends, and neighbours, battle against mental health problems for years. Mental health care should be available for all and cater for all.